The Economics and Politics of High Speed Rail: Lessons from Experiences Abroad, by Daniel Albalate and Germ&agrave; Bel, introduces the main questions policy makers and scholars should examine when considering and studying HSR implementation, with particular emphasis on the US&rsquo;s recent interest in this technology and possible application in California. This study is a rigorous investigation of the economic and political challenges and ramifications of implementing new public transportation technology and its effects on taxpayers.<BR />