Chapelon A., La Locomotives a Vapeur, French edition first published in 1952, English translation by George W. Carpenter, published by Camden Miniature Steam, 2000, ISBN 0 9536523 0 0, 631 pages A4 size.

This monumental work covers the history of the steam locomotive worldwide, from its earliest beginnings in 1802 through to post-war developments in Russia and includes reference to every major locomotive type and development that occurred over that time.  It also includes encyclopaedic and detailed information on technical advancements in the design of almost every aspect of locomotive design, including detail component from wheels to chassis to boilers.

Recommended for reading and as a reference book for all students of old and modern steam.