Roma Agrawal
AUTHOR

Roma Agrawal

Tap the gear icon above to manage new release emails.
I’m an engineer and broadcaster who believes that all the human-made things around us have stories to tell.

I spent fourteen years in the heart of the construction industry, most notably working on the design of The Shard, Western Europe's tallest tower. While I loved the challenge of steel and concrete, I realised that sharing the secrets of the humans behind the innovations, their origin stories and impact on society was even more fun.

Now, I am a full-time author, broadcaster, and speaker. I've written two adult non-fiction books, and three for children. BUILT and NUTS & BOLTS won or were shortlisted for major international awards, and my children's books, most recently HOW TO BUILD A CHOCOLATE BRIDGE, includes hands on experiments which help bridge the gap between complex engineering and our everyday lives.

As a woman of colour in a male-dominated field, I’ve learned that perspective is a powerful tool. Who else would write about engineering as a colonial tool for control, or the intricate workings of a breast-pump? I bring myself to all my work: from presenting shows for the BBC, Channel 4, and Discovery, to serving as a judge for the Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction 2026.

When I’m not drafting my next book (I’m currently deep in research for a 2028 release!), you can usually me crafting or moving. I’ve been dancing since I was six, I’m an avid knitter and sewist, and I practice yoga and lifting weights. I’ve even dabbled in stand-up comedy...

📩 Join my monthly newsletter about design, creativity and books
🎤 For speaking inquiries and festival bookings, visit my website or find me on LinkedIn or Instagram
Search for romatheengineer
Read more Read less

The Best Fiction Podcasts for Listeners Who Love a Good Story

You can’t beat a good story. Luckily, humans are great at storytelling, and the best fiction podcasts are all the proof that the modern listener requires. Get the popcorn ready; it’s storytime.

Featured Article: The Best Fiction Podcasts for Listeners Who Love a Good Story

Best Sellers

Product list
  • Nuts and Bolts cover art
    Preview

    • Nuts and Bolts

    • Seven Small Inventions That Changed the World (in a Big Way)
    • Written by: Roma Agrawal
    • Narrated by: Roma Agrawal
    • Length: 8 hrs and 16 mins
    • Release date: 2023-11-07
    • Language: English
    • Not rated yet

    $21.32 or free with 30-day trial

  • Nägel mit Köpfen cover art
    Preview

    $17.86 or free with 30-day trial