Great Lives from History: Scientists and Science [Print Purchase includes Free Online Access]

This is the newest addition to the Great Lives from History series. More than 350 scientists are discussed in this three-volume set, which covers all disciplines of science, including astronomy, biology, chemistry, computer science, earth science, mathematics, and physics. Arranged alphabetically, each entry covers the scientist’s early life, life’s work, and impact. Along with this information, readers can find their nationality and occupation, synopses of their historical importance, birth and death information, and areas of achievement, followed by suggestions for further reading. In addition, the scientists are given individual fact boxes, which detail their achievements and discoveries in brief. The appendixes include a chronological list of entries, a time line, a biographical directory of scientists, Nobel Prize laureates, electronic resources, and a bibliography. With the purchase of the print set, the reader also receives access to the online database. Categorical, geographical, and subject indexes are included. Each essay is written in clear, concise language, with ample explanations of scientific concepts or terms for the lay reader. Historical time periods are taken into consideration with each discovery, and scientific missteps are also detailed, especially if they led to later advancements. This is a very readable source for information on a wide variety of scientists and the science they studied. Ancient mathematicians are found alongside uneducated female fossil hunters. High-school libraries and public libraries serving students will make good use of this set. --Lynn Evarts