Science HistoriesHere's two science history books you might like to read side-by-side. Both books very much keep the lay reader in mind (we admit to being among them) and so we recommend both to readers who enjoy science and history presented in interesting, accessible, and page-turning ways.
Steven Johnson’s The Invention of Air: A Story of Science, Faith, Revolution, & The Birth of America retells the story of Joseph Priestley’s (1733-1804) life and contributions to science and history in both Great Britain and America. Examined topics include science, religion, and politics (Priestley influenced our Founding Fathers) during the age in which Priestley lived.
Madison Smartt Bell’s Lavoisier in the Year One: The Birth of a New Science in an Age of Revolution retells the story of Antoine Lavoisier (1743-1794), a French contemporary and fierce rival of the British Priestley. Bell, a novelist, uses his considerable skill to describe how Lavoisier's reasoned life was caught up in, and lost, during the French Revolution.
Post by Bev Simmons
