"The Waterworks" is a historical novel by American author E.L. Doctorow. The story takes place in New York City in the mid-19th century and follows the investigation of a journalist named McIlvaine into the disappearance of his father, a wealthy industrialist. As McIlvaine delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers a sinister plot involving a corrupt waterworks system that has been manipulating the city's water supply and exploiting its citizens. Along the way, he encounters a cast of memorable characters, including a mysterious doctor, a wealthy socialite, and a group of street urchins. The novel combines elements of mystery, historical fiction, and social commentary, and it offers a vivid portrait of New York City during a time of rapid transformation and growth. "The Waterworks" was critically acclaimed for its richly drawn characters, intricate plot, and masterful prose, and it is widely considered one of Doctorow's finest works.