Customer Reviews

The Diesel Odyssey of Clessie Cummins

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Did you know that Diesel-powered cars once competed in the Indy 500? This is only one of many interesting historical events presented in The Diesel Odyssey of Clessie Cummins. The book tells three storys simultaneously: 1) the life story of inventor Clessie Cummins, 2) the early history of the Cummins Engine Co., and 3) the birth of the automotive (truck) diesel engine industry. It does all three of these tasks very well. The author has done an exceptional job of supporting the facts and dates in the book with detailed annotations and references to his sources. The author writes from the unique vantage point of the subject's son. The book details Clessie's personal experiences as a gifted genious of diesel engineering, and his struggle to both produce and and market his innovative products. This book is "must" reading for anyone interested in the history of Cumins Engine Co. and the diesel engine industry in general. This book is pleasnt reading with many comical asides. The story will be enjoyed even by those with no kowledege (or interest in) the technical aspect of diesel engines. It is an excellent tale of early American engenuity and entrepreneurship

I have worked for a Cummins Engine distributor for over 37 years. This book is a very accurate account of the pains and success' of where Cummins Inc. is today. Leaders within their industry. They are a company dedicated to one thing and one thing only. "Diesel Engines". I would highly reccomend to anyone interested in the history of this company, "as a must read". Lyle's style of narrating his Father's times and developing the Cummins engine is not only interesting, but extreamly accurate. I am pleased to have been involved with this fine Company.

This is one of the best books I have ever had the privilege of reading. I have shared this book with friends and relatives, people and the reports have been unanimous - an excellent read!