Universe Today
"Strongly recommended for biography readers and science enthusiasts who want to take a look at what events have shaped the lives of influential scientists, and how their scientific discoveries have changed the way they see the world."
Booklist
"An exceedingly welcome volume that will expose readers to all manner of topics that are likely new to them in a manner that focuses first on the lively personalities of the scientists, while slowly diving into their work. Surprises abound . . . and the book’s diversionary aspect can not be overrated. Truly enjoyable."
American Scientist
"[Klein’s] interview subjects explain their science clearly and display their passions vividly, making this an engaging introduction to a great breadth of scientific topics."
Nature
"The dazzling clutch of scientific minds caught in mid-thought here makes for a read that provokes thought. . . . Delights abound."
Nature Lib
"The dazzling clutch of scientific minds caught in mid-thought here makes for a read that provokes thought. . . . Delights abound."
From the Publisher
The dazzling clutch of scientific minds caught in mid-thought here makes for a read that provokes thought. . . . Delights abound.”—Nature “[Klein’s] interview subjects explain their science clearly and display their passions vividly, making this an engaging introduction to a great breadth of scientific topics.”—American Scientist “An exceedingly welcome volume that will expose readers to all manner of topics that are likely new to them in a manner that focuses first on the lively personalities of the scientists, while slowly diving into their work. Surprises abound. . . and the book’s diversionary aspect can not be overrated. Truly enjoyable.”—Booklist “This work will enthrall popular science lovers and STEM enthusiasts.”—Library Journal “Strongly recommended for biography readers and science enthusiasts who want to take a look at what events have shaped the lives of influential scientists, and how their scientific discoveries have changed the way they see the world.”—Universe Today
Library Journal
02/01/2016
In Klein's (The Science of Happiness) collection of interviews, chemist and poet Roald Hoffman sums up the scientific profession by commenting that scientists are merely members of a social system that puts curiosity to use. Klein's book not only confirms Hoffman's sentiment but also embraces these curious people and the work they do. The 18 entries here originated in conversations conducted for German newspaper Die Zeit, and feature scientists from a variety of fields, such as cosmologist Martin Rees, evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins, primatologist Jane Goodall, and developmental psychologist Alison Gopnik. Amazingly, Klein includes an "interview" with Leonardo Da Vinci, basing it on the artist's notes and research. In all of these exchanges, Klein delves into the motivations of each scientist and as a result, the interviews portray people who are captivating as well as thoughtful about their achievements. While the book's title doesn't reflect the depth of the conversations within, it still offers a chance to share in the lives of some of the most intriguing people on the planet. VERDICT This work will enthrall popular science lovers and STEM enthusiasts.—Rebecca Hill, Zionsville, IN
