Empire builder

About this book

"Empire Builder" explores the scope and consequences of the recent domestic oil boom resulting from the controversial hydraulic fracturing ('fracking') process. The book follows the rail line extending from Chicago to Seattle-which corresponds both to the Empire Builder passenger train line and the supply chain of the frac industry. When completely unfolded, the book reads like a map, tracing the path of industry and destruction in one long, unbroken line ... depicts the reopening of the American frontier, shedding light on frac drilling by exploring the history of boom-and-bust cycles and westward expansion. The book juxtaposes an 1861 New York Times quote with landscape illustrations of how the West has been affected by this modern pioneer era"--23 Sandy Gallery Booksellers' website, viewed on September 22, 2015.