Reading about a subject enough times can practically kill interest in it--just ask any of the research scientists who are wondering where their replacements will come from. National Geographic gives scientists from Aristotle to Stephen Hawking a say with Curt Suplee's
Milestones of Science, a lovely book that captures the imagination with pictures as much as with their accompanying text.
Pavlov's dogs, Volta's battery, and an ancient Chinese compass all contribute to the reader's sense of immersion in the topic at hand, and Suplee's short, pithy essays on topics ranging broadly across all aspects of science whet the appetite for greater depth. Original documents of greats like Leonardo and Galileo, high-detail pictures of modern nuclear and medical machines, and illuminating juxtapositions, like the shots of 19th- and 20th-century surgeries, provide enough material to keep all but the most adamant technophobe interested for hours. --Rob Lightner
YA-A colorful, attention-grabbing overview of scientific milestones, or as the author explains, "points at which some aspect of nature became substantially more understandable." The book is divided into 10 sections that represent time periods and eras of scientific thought. Beginning with the Dawn of Inquiry (pre-600 B.C.) and culminating in the crescendo to 20th-century technological advances, the text is highlighted by fascinating color photos and reproductions. Readers learn that in the Classical Era (600 B.C.-A.D. 500) people began to reason that the actions of nature followed predictable and logical principles that could be learned through observation and experimentation. They learn about the contributions of the Chinese (gunpowder, paper, and the compass) and their resulting influences on history. The Arab donation of the concept and notation of "zero"; the "Dark Ages" feats of mechanical clocks, waterwheels, and windmills; and the fact that Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe wore a gold-and-silver false nose to replace his own lost in a duel-these and many more fascinating facts are brought to life within the pages of this book. Vivid photos and reproductions, many dating from earlier centuries, and a concise, interesting text make this a great reference source for young adults needing an overview of scientific accomplishments. It is even captivating enough to read cover to cover.
Carol DeAngelo, Kings Park Library, Burke, VA
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