I'm Roma Agrawal, author, presenter, Mega Badass Engineer.

I studied physics and worked as a structural engineer in the construction industry for 15 years. A few years ago, I started writing because I wanted to present complex but amazing engineering stories in an exciting and engaging way.

My first book, BUILT: The Hidden Stories Behind our Structures, was published in 2018. It won the AAAS / Subaru Award in the USA, and was shortlisted for the Jhalak Prize.

The beautiful, illustrated children's version, HOW WAS THAT BUILT? is out in September 2021.

And now, I'm writing my third book, called NUTS AND BOLTS: Seven Small Inventions that Changed the World (in a BIG way).

Here, in my bookshop, I'm sharing the books I'm passionate about. Science and Engineering of course, but as an IVF mum and avid reader, there's loads to choose from!

Love for Built!

"She weaves accessible explanations of scientific principles together with engaging historical stories and personal anecdotes." 

- The Guardian 

"Agrawal  has a gift for rendering complex phenomena in simple terms, such as her  explanation of the critical failures that led to the collapse of the  Twin Towers. For those of us who are architecturally inclined but  somewhat maths-averse, it’s a real treat." 

- The Financial Times

"A wonderfully absorbing book about an engineer and her passion for construction" 

- Professor Mark Miodownik, materials engineer, broadcaster and author of Stuff Matters

"A charming tribute to one woman's love of engineering. Full of fascinating facts and personal stories" 

- Angela Saini, author of Inferior and Superior