So You Want To Be A Roller Coaster Designer (Theme Park Engineer) (So You Want To Be A...)

"So You Want To Be A Roller Coaster Designer by Linda Soules introduces readers to the science and creativity behind designing thrilling rides. The book begins by inviting readers to imagine creating experiences that evoke excitement, anticipation, and joy, and explains that every sensation on a roller coaster is carefully planned. It walks through how designers think about forces such as speed, gravity, and motion, showing how hills, drops, and loops are shaped to produce specific physical sensations. The narrative explains that roller coaster design is both an engineering and a storytelling endeavor, contributing to a broader emotional experience. Readers learn how designers use computer simulations to test rides before they are built, followed by real-world testing to ensure safety and accuracy. The book also explores where designers work, from offices where calculations are made to construction sites where rides take physical form.

Linda Soules blends technical ideas with examples, helping readers understand how physics shapes each moment of a ride. Illustrations reinforce the text by showing track designs, testing processes, and riders' expressions, helping young readers grasp complex concepts. The structure builds logically, moving from imagination to design, testing, and real-world application, mirroring the creation of a roller coaster. Readers who enjoy engineering, design, or amusement parks may find the book especially appealing, particularly those curious about how thrilling experiences are carefully planned. So You Want To Be A Roller Coaster Designer also invites readers to observe the world around them with curiosity, encouraging creative thinking and an interest in how ideas can become real experiences. The book is geared toward older children who are familiar with roller coasters."

"So You Want To Be A Roller Coaster Designer is a fun, fast, and informative children's book that takes readers behind the scenes of one of the most exciting engineering jobs imaginable. This children's book has plenty to offer younger children, older students, teachers, parents, and even curious adults. At just 38 pages, it's a short read, but it manages to pack in a lot of fascinating information about what it really takes to design a roller coaster before anyone ever gets to enjoy the ride.

One of the book's strengths is how clearly it explains the mix of imagination and science involved in roller coaster design. Readers learn that designers don't simply dream up wild rides and hope they work. They use physics, geometry, computer simulations, force measurements, scale models, and careful calculations to make sure every hill, loop, turn, and drop is thrilling and safe. The book does a great job showing how classroom concepts like force, motion, momentum, velocity, and g-forces connect to a real-world career that many kids already find exciting.

The book also highlights the teamwork and responsibility behind the fun. Roller coaster designers work with engineers, manufacturers, construction crews, mechanics, safety specialists, and many others to turn an idea into a working attraction. I especially appreciated how much attention the book gives to safety, because it helps young readers understand that the most exciting rides are possible only because so many people are carefully checking every detail. The book also includes useful career-focused sections, such as tools of the trade, a day in the life, important qualities for the job, famous coaster designers, fun facts, a glossary, and ideas for what interested kids can do now.

The illustrations throughout the book are exceptional, as they are throughout every book in Linda Soules So You Want To Be A... series. My favorite scenes were the ones where people were actually riding the roller coasters. You can see the joy and excitement on their faces, which makes the book feel even more fun. I think kids will connect with those moments because they capture the feeling of being on a ride.

This is a well-structured, creative, and informative book for children who love roller coasters, engineering, theme parks, or simply learning how amazing things are made. The colorful artwork and short sections make it approachable, while the real-world details give it lasting educational value. It would be a great addition to a classroom library, especially for science units on force and motion, and it is also a wonderful choice for families with curious kids."

"In Roller Coaster Designer (Theme Park Engineer), Linda Soules asks a question most kids have already wondered: why does your stomach lift at the top of a hill? From that sensation, she walks readers into G-forces, clothoid loops, and the physics behind every scream.

Inside you'll find those forces explained through the rider's body, why teardrop loops replaced circles, and how specialized software models curves before steel is ordered. Scale models, accelerometer testing, safety standards, and a workday from loop-sequence fixes to five o'clock document reviews fill the pages. You'll learn why the train has no engine after the first climb, how structural and mechanical teams collaborate, facts on Formula Rossa and rollback brakes, hands-on projects, why pacing matters as much as speed, and how the body becomes the last measuring device.

Soules compares a track profile to sheet music and ride pacing to cutting a film sequence, and both earned their place on the page. This So You Want To Be A... entry keeps her direct address without talking down. The images show steel on a fabrication floor and engineers walking a rising structure, giving readers visuals to linger over during a shared read at home.

Hand this to a reader ages 10 to 12 before your next park visit. One marble-run experiment and one ride taken with attention to when you feel heavy or light may spark interest in theme park engineering."

"So You Want To Be A Roller Coaster Designer (Theme Park Engineer) by Linda Soules is a vibrant, engaging, and deeply informative introduction to the world of theme park engineering, specifically focusing on the art and science of roller coaster design. Aimed at readers aged 10 to 14 but accessible to a much broader audience, the book succeeds in making a complex STEM career both understandable and inspiring.

The book opens by capturing the thrill of roller coasters—not just as rides, but as carefully engineered experiences. She explains concepts like G-forces, potential and kinetic energy, and the importance of track geometry in a way that is both accurate and accessible. For example, the explanation of why loops are teardrop-shaped rather than circular is both a physics lesson and a story of engineering innovation.

Soules makes it clear that great roller coasters are not just about speed or height, but about crafting a sequence of emotions—anticipation, surprise, exhilaration—through precise design. The book details the process from computer simulations and scale models to real-world testing, highlighting the meticulous attention to safety and the iterative nature of engineering work.

The narrative is peppered with real-world examples, fun facts, and profiles of pioneering designers. The inclusion of practical activities—like building a marble run or keeping a ride journal—invites readers to experiment and think like engineers themselves.

The book combines technical detail with genuine enthusiasm, making the world of roller coaster design both accessible and exciting. The book not only informs but inspires, opening doors for readers to imagine themselves as the creators of tomorrow’s thrills.

Summary: An outstanding resource for curious children, aspiring engineers, and even adults interested in the magic behind theme park attractions.

"This author covers everything from what drives a designer to do their job, how to do it and the tools needed, along with the good and bad parts of the job. The qualities needed for a designer are listed, questions for your child to ask themselves and if truly interested, steps to take next."

"I am an adult and I learned a few things I never knew. This book covers the basics of physics that make roller coasters work. It highlights the steps of how a roller coaster comes to be from the first idea of the design by the engineers to the manufacturers and construction workers making and assembling it at the park."

"I never knew the loops on a Rollercoaster were not circles but teardrop shaped. Really interesting and great detailed information for being a roller coaster designer."

"Great educational book and kids get to see what they learn in school that can bring them this specific job. Makes them think!! And learn!"

"What drew me to this book was the role itself. I didn't know it existed! My son is creative and has always loved building. This book helped him understand a potential way to use that passion. I love that this is approachable material for his age and that it truly covers it all. The author notes the fun parts and the unexpected. I think this pushes kids to think about multiple perspectives. The illustrations also really brought the material to life."

"Another great 'So you want to be' book! Perfect for thrill seeking kicks who love roller coasters and theme parks! A great explanation of how roller coasters work for your little engineer in the making. This book does a great job of telling about the challenges roller coaster designers experience while also sharing about the fun parts of their job!"

"A few students of mine have been talking about a new ride and why it's taking so long. This was the perfect book to show them why it taking long and how it's starts with and idea and the process from start to finish."

"Very informative and unique book. I’ve been a teacher for 16 years and this is the first time I’ve come across a book about roller coaster engineers."

"This continues to be an excellent series of books. It's visual enough to be an easy start for a young reader and the physics just shows up naturally. The reader is learning before they know it. A great way to explore careers."

"I was blown away by the detail and organization of this book. Any child interested in being a roller coaster engineer should have a copy."

"My 5 year old and I read this together. He really loved it! It has sparked new curiosity."

"From the top of the hill, to the bottom of the loop this book had me intrigued. We are big roller coaster enthusiasts in my family and this book checks every box. I loved learning about the first coaster designer, to how g-forces affect the body. A great read!"

"Recently found this series for my classroom and am adding a few at a time. I’ve never seen a book on roller coaster designers, so this piqued my interest! The illustrations are well done and the information is given in a variety of formats. All the extra information at the end of the book adds to the overall reading experience!"

"As an educator I feel like young kids thinking about what they want to be when they grow up could certainly benefit. I definitely plan on recommending this series to colleagues so they can look into adding this to their classroom library!"

"This book is perfect for my classroom library. I teach science and try to incorporate books that can work with each unit. This book works with force and motion but also great for showing what careers are in the science fields."

"I loved this book. I learned so much just reading it to my kid. It gave me understanding on how things are done and the safety behind it. Very good at explaining things. I also loved how it gave definitions and other places to find more information."

"Such a fun and engaging read! A creative, kid-friendly look into the world of roller coaster design that makes learning exciting. Great for curious kids who love theme parks and engineering."

"This was a creative and lively read for a young boy or girl interested in learning about rollercoasters and how they are made. Great information for writing a report."

"This is a detailed easy to follow book for kids/teens dreaming of being a roller coaster designer. Honestly as an adult it was informative. It talks about everything from g-forces, to design, building, testing, and beyond. If your child is curious or enjoys just the roller coaster games this is great."

"This was a pretty interesting book that took me behind the scenes of how roller coasters are designed and built. It explains the science of speed, height, and gravity in a way that feels fun instead of complicated, making it great for curious readers of all ages. The book mixes real engineering ideas with examples of famous roller coasters, helping you see how imagination and math come together to create thrilling rides. Overall, it's an interesting and educational read that makes you look at amusement parks differently. I would recommend it!"

"Explains the science that goes into roller coasters and some of the challenges in an informative but concise way."

"This book was fascinating! We learned so much about the many things that go into designing roller coasters. As the author wrote, 'A great designer thinks about the rider's emotions first, then figures out what the track needs to do to create them.' There are so many things that have to go exactly right before the coaster design can advance to the building phase. This book was such a great learning opportunity. I highly recommend it!"

"My 9 year old really enjoyed this book! Lots of great information and illustrations. We live near Kings Island, and we can see the roller coasters from the road, so he was very excited and happy with this book. He doesn't like riding them much but likes understanding how they work."

"I LOVE the artwork in this book! It is vibrant and creative. This is also a great book because of the details given about being a roller coaster designer. As a teacher, I can imagine using it in a classroom when talking about different jobs kids could be when they grow up. They could use this book as research for a project and present about it. Parents could also use the book for their own children, if interested in the topic. I appreciated that it discussed the work done on computers before the ride is ever ridden. It has plenty of great facts about the occupation to keep readers engaged and actually learning about a fun job opportunity!"

"Interesting and creative book that explains how roller coasters are planned and built. The book is educational and entertaining. The illustrations and explanations helped me understand how speed, height, and loops work together in a design. It is an enjoyable book about creativity, problem solving, and innovation."

"I love this book. It gives insight to people who know they want to something besides the traditional lawyer, teacher, doctor path. It also deep dives into something for that person who always has love STEM careers. It has bright beautiful illustrations. It could be a great mentor text for teachers because it has headings, subheading, a daily schedule/timeline, and a page for further research. This is a great book to add to the collection."

"What a wonderful book for kids to learn about a roller coaster and how they are built. As a teacher this is definitely a book I would have for my students to read while working on stem projects dealing with engineering. It has such great insight into a fun career in engineering too."

"I've watched the new Fast and Furious Roller Coaster be built over time during visits to Univer Studios. I've ridden multiple coasters, flipped upside down, this way and that. I'm awaiting the opening of Montezuma's Revenge at Knott's Berry Farm. But never once did I think about what's gone into making a coaster, a coaster. This is such an eye opening book and the job itself is so intricate. Absolutely loved reading this."

"This is a fun, informative book for kids who love roller coasters and dream of designing their own someday! Topics include the best, hardest, and most surprising parts about being a roller coaster designer; what a day on the life of a roller coaster designer looks like; what qualities are needed; who they work with; fun facts; famous roller coaster designers in history; and what exactly this job entails. Anyone who’s ever enjoyed the latest, greatest roller coaster at their favorite amusement park will enjoy this fact-filled book!"

"Linda Soules has done it again. The author does a great job of keeping you and your kids wanting to learn more. This book is perfect for roller coaster fans and for those who want to know more about how they are designed. I love that this book has a glossary with terms that make it simple for kids to read and learn about things like 'kinetic energy,' and how that plays into building a coaster. Love the pictures as well. A very fun read to learn the ins and outs of designing rides for theme park!"

"This is another great book in a great series. These books really go in depth into what it takes to have this career, but does it in a very interesting and easy to understand way. It also shows all the hard work that does into being a ride engineer without making it seem like something that is impossible to achieve."

"Super fun read. Hear me out. I know this is a book for kids, but as a person that LOVES roller coasters, this was a fun short read. It was interesting to get a glimpse at how one is designed and the safety things they have to keep in mind. I love how one of their favorite parts of the job is seeing the people riding a ride they designed."

"Kids will totally get excited to read this book. The illustrations wonderfully compliment the text and show the range of emotions when riding a roller coaster! I love how simply the author describes the physics and planning part of designing a roller coaster. The process is so clear and easy to understand. This book gives kids hope that they can make their dreams come true, perhaps in an engineering career like becoming a roller coaster designer. Highly recommend."

"I really enjoyed reading this, even as an adult. It does a great job at being thorough but also easy for a kid to understand! It goes into detail about what it takes to be a theme park engineer, but also isn't too confusing, which engineering, physics, etc. can be. It hits the basics of theme park engineering, which include physics, using design software, scale models, tools to measure g-forces, and the actual ride itself!"

"Another great book in the series! What a fun way to review the behind the scenes of a roller coaster designer! Shows children the importance of physics, social interactions with others, and more. So interesting to see what knowledge is needed to get into the field and how to encourage young learners to be innovative and use common objects to begin creating and testing their own knowledge of design and physics."

"Who doesn't love a roller coaster!? And to be the person behind making so many hearts happy could be you! I love the excitement this book builds as well as the truths about what this job entails."

"Another interesting read! As a math teacher, I love how the author has shown the connection between math and engineering a roller coaster. I was also interested to find how many different roles are needed for the completion of creating a roller coaster. A great reader for anyone interested in making the magic of building a roller coaster."

"A really fascinating read. Roller coasters are amazing and this book tells you all about what you should know to become a roller coaster designer. The steps are well described and the job is intense. It takes years to design, build and test a successful coaster. You are part of a team of builders - all dedicated to making the best product imaginable."

"Another fantastic entry in this series. The author delves into the specifics of roller coaster design and highlights the specific education as an engineer that is needed for the profession. She also comes straight to the point at the end of the book and states some hard facts about what it takes to be undertake this particular line of business.

As a person who enjoys roller coasters, I'm also glad to see how they are built and what goes into the safety aspects, from the cars to the tracks to the harnesses for the ride. I'll still scream on the rides, but can be sure the people who designed and tested have and continue to do their jobs."

"So You Want to Be A Roller Coaster Designer was a great look into the science behind building roller coasters for theme parks. It covers both the fun and difficulty with going into this field of work. I like how it goes through the hardest parts of the job considering they are building something that is all fun. I also enjoyed the history of roller coaster designers and roller coasters in general. Finally, I thought the suggestions of what children can do now to prepare for this type of work was a great way to introduce the job. Overall, great book for children to learn about a job they may not be thinking about."

"Another wonderful So You Want To Be A book! Explains how roller coasters are designed and the requirements to become a design, designer, including knowing physics. Explains how a roller coaster is designed from beginning to end and importance of safety throughout the entire design. The book also mentions three famous roller coaster designers as well as vocabulary needed, and the illustrations are just wonderful."

"Good ideas.. after coming across this book. I always wanted to design and create inventions. Just didn't know how. After reading this book, I learned that there's a lot going into planning a idea and for it to come to pass. Think it, dream it, plan it, build it. I realized I can be more creative with my ideas."

"This is an awesome reference for becoming a theme park engineer. I learned quite a bit from this book and was super surprised at some of the information."

"Engineering and physics can be a little lofty and overwhelming but this book crafts a great bridge between those concepts and the fun of working on roller coaster design. This career is one meant to be dynamic and fun and the author makes sure that comes through while also adding the fine details that go into crafting a real experience. There's a great discussion of the tools and methods necessary to compete each task. The resources provided and further reading are superb as always."

"What a great guide for anyone looking to pursue an out of the box job! There are so many things that go into a rollercoaster and this book helps you think through each. I will use this book in my career counseling with students."

"This book is pretty cool. I have read another in the series and I am still enjoying them. I think older elementary and middle school students would enjoy it, especially if they are interested in roller coasters, but even if they aren't. The pictures are fun and the topics are exactly what I think kids would ask. I love the glossary and that there is a look at what your day might be like. I would definitely put this in my classroom library."

"This was a very thorough, without being overwhelming, book about theme park engineering. The book gives details about how roller coaster are made, what it takes to become a theme park engineer, and famous engineers of the past. Anyone who is interested in roller coasters would love this book."

"Have you ever really wondered how those great roller coaster rides actually come together? It is as simple as putting the track together like you do with Legos, but there is so much science and math involved. Yes the ride may only last 90 seconds and may go 85 mph, but there’s also many months of designing, planning, testing, and reworking that must happen before that coaster makes it to an amusement park. There was someone who had to calculate exactly how fast the car would go, at what angle it needed to be, how it could go inverted, how steep the climb needed to be, and how long it needed to be to reach its maximum velocity, but yet still be safe to ride. This book takes students inside one of the most technically demanding and imaginative professions on earth. There are years of science, physics, and computer modeling that take place before the track is laid out. They will also learn how precise and accurate everything needs to be. I love roller coasters so reading this made me also learn about just how much planning and purpose goes into designing a coaster. I also loved learning some of the history of coasters and how some of the designers have made important contributions to the field. It would be a great addition to any classroom library!"

"A roller coaster designer isn't a job you hear being advertised in school so it was very interesting to read this book and get a glimpse at a day-in-the-life of what one does. The book emphasizes that this role is a blend of science and creativity - you dictate the thrills and experience of the ride with every curve and shape but at the same time, safety is imperative. The most insightful part were the resources listed at the end for further exploration of this world. I didn't realize there was an International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions for example."

"There were two things that initially made this book catch my interests and want to read it.

The first thing, I love roller coasters, but I have absolutely no knowledge on how they are designed and made and wanted to know and what better quick and simple information book to answer the question about what Roller Coaster Designers do then one with this title.

The second thought I had was that I realize this series meant for someone much younger then myself, I am nearly 40 years old, but, I was curious how you would go about breaking down the information needed to write this book in a way that would make it both keep a younger reader engaged and eager to read and learn more, but while still making sure the material is understandable and can give them the information they need to follow the concept of explaining the different aspects of this career.

I really enjoyed it, I learned things myself from it. Learning about how much goes into the planning and the process of building just one ride. The combination of art, math, and science being brought together to turn it onto these amazing marvels of engineering. Looking at the concept of designing a ride as a comparison to composing a song and needing all the pieces to make you think and feel a certain sensation with one of the senses and seeing the rides as storytelling and the thought process behind every inch of the ride being carefully constructed. I never thought to look at it like that before and now I'll think about every roller coaster I have ever been on and try and see what the designer was trying to tell me in the ride's journey.

I love that it also explains the potentially less fun parts of the job, the constant testing and retesting, the absolute importance of safety, how imperative teamwork and cooperation are, how it takes so much time, and that setbacks and redos are inevitable. However, the author added a little nudge to challenge the reader that if they look at those instances as opportunities to learn and grow instead of get aggravated and discouraged, it can make the process a bit easier to endure. I think that's good life advice overall, not even in just roller coaster designs.

My favorite thing about this book is that it covers a bit of the history of the profession and gives a few examples of people who have made major contributions in the field. Personally, when I read and learn about a potential new person or place that relates to the topic I am curious about, I will make a note and want to research that and find more things to read to learn even more about the topic. The author seems to know some readers like me enjoy doing that because they also included a section of further information for the readers to look into of they do want more information or references of things to read to learn more. I loved that inclusion and springboard to more related information and the thought to put the suggestions on there is a good personal touch from the author to their young readers to encourage them."

"This is the perfect book for those kids who don't just want to ride perfect coaster, they want to build it! The author breaks down what skills are needed to be a theme park engineer, from a creative vision to the technical skills required. If your child has spent hours building marble mazes or tracks for their toy cars, they are sure to enjoy this book!"

"For any kid who’s ever dreamed of being a roller coaster engineer this is the book for you. It is written well enough that you can understand even if you don’t understand all the terms that are said in the book. It has a glossary at the end if there are words that you just don’t know what they mean. It goes in depth on all the different positions and steps that it takes from start to finish on building a roller coaster. It even has extra resources at the end to help you if you want to learn more, even after finishing the book."

"As a first-grade teacher, I'm always looking for books that spark curiosity and help students imagine the many exciting careers they could have one day. So You Want to Be a Roller Coaster Designer (Theme Park Engineer) by Linda Soules was a wonderful addition to our classroom library.

My students were fascinated from the very first pages. They loved learning about everything that goes into designing a roller coaster, from the creativity behind the twists and turns to the engineering and problem-solving that make each ride both exciting and safe. It led to so many thoughtful questions and fun conversations, with several students even sketching their own roller coaster ideas afterward.

I especially appreciated how the book makes a complex career feel approachable for young readers. It encourages children to dream big while showing them that math, science, creativity, and teamwork all play an important role in bringing those dreams to life.

This is an engaging, inspiring read that blends learning with imagination. I can easily see it motivating future engineers, designers, and inventors. It's a book I'll happily recommend to other teachers looking to introduce STEM careers in a way that truly captures children's attention."

"​This is a fun, easy-to-read book for kids who love theme parks, building things, or learning how stuff works. It's great for home reading or science lessons about force and motion."

"This is my new favorite of the series. I simply adore how Soules feeds on the imagination of every child. Every dream that's been dreamt and every passion that grows, Soules feeds that with an unmatched energy. I want to read the entire series! Fantastic series."

"As a parent, my family and I are enjoying learning about various occupations through this series. So You Want to be a Roller Coaster Designer, takes a look at the behind the scenes of the 'fun,' to show you the steps it takes to become a designer, how one’s day looks like, and how people work together. One of my favorite parts of the books in the series, is the glossary at the end of the book. I appreciate the explanations the author gives to help my children better understand the job of being a designer."

"This is one of my favorite series and this particular book did not disappoint! So many kids love riding roller coasters, so the interest in this book will be very high. It was very educational and informative. I have never thought about all the physics involved in roller coaster design. Learning about what a designer does on a daily basis and seeing what a young person can do now to prepare for this possible career is very helpful. I also always enjoy how the author includes biographical sketches of famous people who have done this job. That is a lot of fun to learn about.

As a teacher, I find this book and the series in which it is included to be incredibly good resources. I think they are must have for any elementary classroom library."

"Roller coaster designer was not a career I would have given a second thought. This book touched on all the different facets to creating a thrilling ride. This series has some interesting careers to read about."

"My kids really enjoyed this book! It gives a fun, easy-to-understand look at what it takes to design roller coasters and the engineering behind theme park rides. It’s packed with interesting facts and is a great choice for kids who love roller coasters, science, and building things."

"I absolutely love this series once again! These books are so awesome and this one is for sure my second favorite! It’s fun to read to my children because I’m learning too!"

"This book is very inspiring for children who love roller coasters and want to know more about how the every day experience is. The book also talks about the day in the life for the coaster designers and how the safety requirements work. This is a great way to inspire younger kids who are looking to go down the path of engineering and love the idea of designing coasters of their own. The book also talks about the stages of getting your coaster approved by the standards committee of roller coasters. Would definitely recommend!"

"When the author was describing the feeling of the drops and speed of the rollercoaster, I felt it. Really enjoyed reading this and the 'how to.' This seems like a fun, rewarding career."

"It may be a kid's book, but if you've ever ridden a roller coaster, you'll find an interesting read. This book is not just for kids. Pleasantly surprised."

"Such a wonderful book explaining the process to design roller coasters - and with beautiful drawings! Designers (also known as theme park engineers) work in an office using geometry and physics to create coasters. Potential rides are created using a special computer program. Before any ride is built, computers do 'pretend rides' to check out every aspect. Miniature scale models are constructed before the larger-than-life structure is built to see how it appears and co-habitates with the theme park. These designers also work on the actual ride as it is being created in real life. Then real testing is performed after the ride is built, and results are compared with the computer results.

Best and hardest parts of this occupation, equipment needed, and the team that it takes to create these fun rides are detailed. A brief history of famous designers, fun facts, and how to prepare now for this job are included. This is a great book for kids that really explains all that is involved in making roller coasters become reality."

"Roller Coaster Designer by Linda Soules is a great book to read for roller coaster beginners. People feeling uneasy about riding roller coasters should read this book because it explains everything step by step insuring safety is their number one priority when riding! You learn about all the teams involved with producing a new roller coaster and can take years to perfect it! Designers work long hard hours with structural engineers, mechanical teams, safety engineers, construction crews, and once done a maintenance engineer takes over to check it each day to make sure it’s safe! Every detail is double checked multiple times! I enjoyed learning about this because I am traveling to an amusement park this week and feel more confident knowing how hard they work to keep roller coasters safe!"

"Picked this up before a trip with my son who's obsessed with coaster engineering, and it exceeded expectations. The book breaks down physics, safety systems, and design careers in a way that's accessible without dumbing things down. I ended up reading half of it aloud during a long highway drive just to keep us both entertained. Great for teens curious about STEM careers or anyone who's ever wondered how these rides get built. Practical, well-organized, and genuinely fun — not just a 'for kids' book."

"I loved this book! There were so many elements that stood out, such as the illustrations and historical roller coaster engineer figures. While my son is older, this book would be perfect for his love of roller coasters, the bigger the better! He is my thrill seeker. I loved that the book broke down what a day in the life looks like and the process of making sure the coaster is safe while still providing that sense of danger and thrill. The author even gave a page with websites to research further, books to read next, what to do next, and gave great hands-on activities for kids to get started at their level! This also gives kids inspiration for this awesome career. I don't think people probably realize how much detail and time goes into such an awesome job of creating roller coasters."

"WOW! I never considered how many factors and jobs it takes to plan, build, and test a roller coaster. There are so many factors to consider! Speed/speed distribution, angle of turns/banks, proper safety seating & restraints, proper shape of the coaster itself in specific areas. This is a great book to highlight the knowledge and skills needed to complete these tasks successfully. The ideas for experiments are great to get little minds thinking in big ways."

"I really enjoyed this book! It does a great job of explaining the science and engineering behind roller coasters in a way that is easy and fun to understand. I especially liked how it combines physics and STEM concepts with the creative side of designing a ride and thinking about the experience for the rider.

The career information and hands-on activities were also great additions. It gives young readers a realistic look at what it takes to become a theme park engineer while encouraging curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving.

A great choice for kids who love roller coasters, engineering, science, or theme parks!"

"Roller Coaster Designer by Linda Soules gives readers a behind the scenes look at how roller coasters are designed and built. It is written to spark curiosity in kids who love roller coasters, explaining what the job is like each day - from designing rides to learning how they are built and brought to life. The colorful artwork and short, easy to read sections make it very approachable, and it would be a great addition to any classroom or school library."

"What an informative and fun book! This overviews a combination of physics, safety and human sensories. Very informative!"

"So You Want To Be A Roller Coaster Designer (Theme Park Engineer) by Linda Soules is a fun and informative book that completely changed the way I think about roller coasters. I have always associated these rides with speed, drops, loops, and excitement, but this book shows just how much science, creativity, and careful planning happens before anyone gets into the seat.

One of the most interesting details for me was learning how designers use physics concepts such as velocity, momentum, kinetic energy, and g-forces to create specific sensations for riders. I especially liked discovering that the shape of a roller coaster loop isn’t simply a perfect circle. Details like this made me realize how much mathematics and engineering are hidden inside something that looks like pure entertainment.

I also appreciated the attention given to safety. The book makes it clear that designing a thrilling ride isn’t about making it as extreme as possible. Engineers have to consider how the human body reacts to speed and forces and repeatedly test their designs before a coaster can open. The use of computer simulations, scale models, and force measurements helped me understand why building a major attraction can take years even though the actual ride may last only a short time.

The illustrations are another strong feature. They make technical ideas easier to visualize and add energy to the explanations. I particularly enjoyed the images showing people experiencing the rides because they connect all the engineering and calculations to the excitement that designers are ultimately trying to create.

I also liked that the book doesn’t stop at explaining how roller coasters work. It explores what the career is actually like, the different professionals involved, the qualities a designer needs, and steps young readers can take if they are interested in pursuing engineering. The glossary and additional information are useful touches as well.

Overall, this is an excellent introduction to a unique STEM career. So You Want To Be A Roller Coaster Designer manages to make physics and engineering feel exciting instead of intimidating. It would be especially appealing to children who love amusement parks, building things, science, or solving problems. After reading it, I found myself looking at roller coasters differently—not just as rides, but as impressive engineering achievements."

"It really broke down an exciting career into something relatable and attainable, making it feel accessible to anyone interested in the field. I loved how it highlighted the intricate thought process of roller coaster designers, who have to juggle various elements like forces, speed, safety, and the overall experience for riders when crafting a ride that is both thrilling and secure. The example of how each section of the track influences what passengers feel was particularly engaging, showcasing the fascinating blend of technical skills and creativity that is essential in engineering. The book's friendly tone felt like chatting with a buddy who’s eager to share their job insights, which made the content super easy to digest and enjoyable to read. I was amazed at the variety of skills needed for roller coaster design, ranging from math and physics to creativity and problem-solving, illustrating just how multifaceted this career can be. Plus, the focus on the career path gives readers a valuable glimpse into what it takes to thrive in the theme-park industry, including the challenges and rewards that come with it. All in all, it’s a fun and enlightening read for young roller coaster enthusiasts who might be thinking about turning that passion into a career, inspiring them to explore the possibilities that lie ahead in this thrilling field."

"This was such an interesting book to read with children. Who doesn't want to work in a theme park when they're 10? The part I loved about the book were the realistic description of what the job is truly about. It describes how theme park engineers test everything and how much effort that takes. It clearly describes the best, the hardest as well as the most surprising part of the job in a way that's easy to understand. Absolutely learned so much from it."

"What a fun book! Perfect for a curious child, but totally enjoyable as an adult too. The pictures are fabulous and there are a lot of interesting facts thrown in."

"This book is filled with of great information on what it takes to build a rollercoaster along with the various jobs the people behind the scenes are responsible for to make the coaster a safe and successful ride!

The illustrations are out of this world and full of detail! They really bring all of the information to life for the reader.

I plan to add this book to my personal and classroom library."

"These little books are so great! They are packed full of great illustrations to catch the eye and they are also full of amazing information that not only teaches you about the profession but it teaches you about things that can go along with it as well. As kids grow up they are always geared towards the basics like a doctor, lawyer, professional sports, etc. These little books give a great inside scoop into careers that aren't always talked about but are really cool! I mean, we all grow up loving roller coasters, but how many people really know what goes into actually designing or making one?!?!"

"My son loves this book. And after spending my childhood playing roller coaster tycoon, I must admit I found it very interesting myself! Lots of cool information."

"These books are cute and I really love them. They open up your child's imagination and they start asking a lot of questions. These books teach kids that they can be anything they want to be."

"Wow! I absolutely loved this book. It's supposed to be for kids but anyone could actually read and find it beyond interesting. It goes right to the point; each section is more exciting that the one before; the fun facts are awesome... I didn't think I was gonna learn that much about roller coasters and feel that interested about physics."

"Spoiler: it's way more than sketching loops on a napkin. These folks use imagination, physics, geometry, and a mountain of computer simulations to create rides no one has ever experienced before."

"I came across this book by chance and found it to be an excellent children’s read. I’ve never been a big fan of amusement parks, but when I was a kid, I really admired my peers who dared to ride roller coasters. I lived in Cleveland for many years, and everyone there was always talking about the tallest roller coaster at Cedar Point.

This book introduced me to the stories behind roller coasters, how behind every safe and joyful ride, there are people whose expertise ensures everything runs smoothly.

What impressed me most was the discussion at the end about what it takes to be a roller coaster designer: you need firsthand experience and personal insight. In fact, this applies to every profession—you need to truly understand what your work and mission are in order to do them well."

"I really enjoyed reading this book. As a theme park enthusiast it was really fun learning about how roller coasters are designed, tested and finally come to life. The book images were fun to look at and made the information easy and enjoyable to understand. I thought it was especially cool to learn that engineers use both computers and physical models to test how a coaster will work before it is built. I also thought it was surprising learn that a coaster can’t go through a loop that is higher than the initial hill lift. I learned a lot of things about roller coasters from this book and would definitely recommend to anyone to anyone who loves roller coasters or is looking to become a theme park engineer."

"Think this book was the best we’ve read from the 'So You Want To Be' series. My son loves making marble runs and recently started STEM. Love how this book made him realize he could design roller coasters for a living. Great book, easy read and the pictures are always perfect for helping with the story. Definitely recommend!"

"I appreciate the way this author designs her books. She describes what attracts people to a certain career choice, delves into detail what is involved in that choice along with an idea of what a day in the life view might look like. The challenges and rewards of such a career choice are presented and at the end of the book, the author talks about standouts in the field, defines terms for readers, and encourages them on what they can do now to learn and even gain experience before you even start such a career. The artwork throughout the book is well designed and there’s much to look at in each picture.

This book really provides an in-depth look at the Roller Coaster Designing industry and shares the roles, processes, and skills needed to be an engineer in this field. Following patterns combined with physics, geometry, while expressing their creativity, Roller Coaster Designers bring excitement to thousands of people who enjoy the thrill of roller coaster rides worldwide. Aspiring designers are encouraged to start now learning how to blend science, art, and storytelling together while creating their own models of the most spine-tingling roller coaster ride ever! While you won't ever catch me riding a roller coaster, I did enjoy the read and learned about one of the pioneering women in the field as well as another engineer who has designed over 600 rides!"

"So You Want To Be. Rollercoaster Designer is a clear and concise book regarding the steps you need to take if someone is interested in learning about Rollercoaster designing. It packs a lot of information in a short book. The images are a bit darker but at the same time colourful. Interesting read for sure. I would recommend to an older child that has shown interests in building things and loves a good rollercoaster!"

"This book is very informative and interesting to read. There are lots of details and interesting facts about roller coasters and how they become what they are. The history and the educational information make it an intriguing book along with the pictures."

"This book gave me a different way of looking at roller coasters. I never really stopped to think about how much math, science and planning goes into creating a ride that only lasts about 90 seconds. I thought it was interesting learning about g-forces, speed, momentum and how designers use computer simulations to test rides before they are even built. Another thing that stood out to me was that a roller coaster can take years of work to design and make safe. I also liked learning about how roller coasters have changed over time. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves amusement parks or is interested in engineering and wants to know what happens behind the scenes."

"This is such a fun and interesting book for kids who love roller coasters and want to know how they’re designed. I really enjoyed how it explains the science, physics, safety, and creativity behind building a roller coaster in a way that’s easy to understand. It also gives kids a great look at what it takes to become a theme park engineer. A great STEM book that can inspire young readers to explore engineering and design!"

"This was such an interesting and informative read! I learned so much about what goes into designing rollercoasters and all the thought, creativity, and planning behind them. Definitely a fun book for anyone who loves rollercoasters or is curious about how they’re made!"

"An amazing book for those curious kids who wants to know the details and the framework behind those big roller coasters! Well written book."