Railroad art and photography are the subjects of two soon-to-be-published books, now available for preorder in the Whistle Stop Shop museum store at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, 300 Gap Road, Strasburg. The authors, J. Craig Thorpe and Tony Reevy, will also be at the museum for presentations and book signings.

"Railroads, Art, and American Life: An Artist's Memoir" by Thorpe explores the past, present, and future of rail travel through his works of art. His personal story and paintings depict not only the golden age of train travel but also the role that railroads play in society today and looking forward. This 260-page, hardback volume features 130 color illustrations.

Thorpe will give a presentation and sign copies of his book at the museum on Wednesday, May 10, at 11 a.m. The presentation is free of charge, but advance registration at http://www.eventbrite.com is required, whether attending in person or via Zoom. Registration is for the presentation only, and the ticket does not include museum admission. Regular museum admission rates apply and may be paid at the admissions desk on the day of the visit.

"The Railroad Photography of Phil Hastings" by Reevy explores the life and work of Dr. Philip R. Hastings. Along with his contemporaries, Hastings was influenced by the photojournalistic movement that developed during his childhood, and he expanded his work from traditional locomotive roster and action shots into a holistic view of the railroad environment. Reevy's 224-page hardcover volume features 152 black-and-white illustrations.

Reevy will give a presentation and sign copies of his book at the museum on Saturday, Sept. 30, at 11 a.m. during the annual Members Day event. His free presentation will be for Friends members only. Registration for this event will be made available in late summer.

For more information, visit http://www.rrmuseumpa.org or call 717-687-8628. The cost of each book is discounted for current members of the Friends of the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania. The book order form is also available on the aforementioned website.