reviews

Vivid visuals... Author:  Lauren Redniss Not every science writer starts by creating her own font.   But then, Lauren Redniss isn’t your typical science writer.   Wearing numerous hats – writer, illustrator, font generator – the award winning author presents Thunder & Lightning, a vivid exploration of all things meteorological. Much as she did in her groundbreaking 2010 work, Radioactive, Redniss combines thoughtful science writing with a unique visual style.  Distinctively illustrating each topic, she creates a thoroughly engaging exploration of the wonders of the weather. Lightning in Switzerland. But this isn’t your typical picture book.  It’s written for a [...]

Eastward Ho! Author:  Stephen R. Bown The overused adjective “great” doesn’t really do it justice.  Despite the rather stale name, The Great Northern Expedition is rightly regarded as the most impressive scientific endeavor in the history of European exploration.  Credited with mapping much of eastern Siberia and northwestern North America, the quest was remarkable for many reasons.  In Island of the Blue Foxes, Canadian history writer Stephen R. Bown tells of this dangerous quest for geographic and economic greatness. First envisioned by Peter the Great, shortly before his death in 1725, the expedition spanned the years 1733-1743, and given the [...]

Madcap Heroines, Desperate Criminals, and a Place Called Hurricane Hall Author: E.D.E.N Southworth Regaling readers with a mix of 19th century morals, heroism, and extreme crime, E.D.E.N. Southworth’s serialized adventures of one smart-alecky, adventure seeking, and charismatic heroine - a women transformed from urchin to lady -  are divulged in the half thriller, half romance Hidden Hand (or Capitola the Madcap if you’re fond of zesty titles.) Originally recommended by a work friend with a love for literature and a hankering for history, I encountered The Hidden Hand with zero knowledge of the plot, deciding instead to be surprised. The atmosphere, at times cozy, is always gripping [...]