"Puffing Billy" and the Prize "Rocket" or, the story of the Stephensons and our Railways.

"Puffing Billy" and the Prize "Rocket" by Helen C. Knight is a historical tale that recounts the extraordinary life of George Stephenson, charting his course from impoverished coal miner to celebrated railway pioneer. The story follows Stephenson's determined climb from childhood challenges in Newcastle's coal-mining region, where his fascination with machinery ignites his ambition, to his relentless pursuit of engineering knowledge. His relentless rise through the ranks of the mining industry highlights his growing skill and commitment, leading to a pivotal moment: the creation of the "Puffing Billy" locomotive. Themes of persistence, cleverness, and the huge changes brought about by railway development become central, framing Stephenson’s accomplishments within the broader transformation of society.