Astronomer and scientist Carl Sagan said, “Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known.” Read one of these science books for your Summer Reading journey, and learn something incredible! If your curiosity demands more, an expanded list of did-you-know titles is only a click away.
The Bird Way by Jennifer Ackerman
Have you wondered: Which bird impales its prey on thorns, but is also a beautiful singer? Which birds feed their siblings? Which give gifts, or create stunning works of art? Which destroy other birds’ creations? Is it true birds think?
Learn about these and many more idiosyncrasies in the amazing world of birds.
Accessible; Engaging
Apollo’s Arrow by Nicholas A. Christakis
Have you wondered: What will be the long-term effects of the coronavirus pandemic on American society? What will our nation’s recovery look like in the coming years? Was this the worst epidemic ever? Has the pandemic changed the way people view scientific information?
A science-backed look at where America could be headed in the future as the pandemic recedes.
Incisive; Persuasive
Chemistry for Breakfast by Dr. Mai Thi Nguyen-Kim
Have you wondered: Why does your alarm clock nearly send you reeling from your bed? How does toothpaste work on your teeth? Why do the cookies or cake you bake sometimes turn out dry? What does chemistry have to do with falling in love?
This book shows that chemistry can provide the answers to life’s quirky questions.
Captivating; Accessible
Cosmic Queries by Neil DeGrasse Tyson
Have you wondered: How old is the universe? Is there intelligent life beyond Earth? What is our place in the universe? How will it all end?
An enlightening look at these and other perennial questions about our world.
Thought-Provoking; Engaging
The New Climate War by Michael E. Mann
Have you wondered: Is the best way to fight climate change up to individual citizens? Are we really making a difference by recycling, flying less, or eating less red meat? Are fossil fuel companies just deflecting blame? How can real change be obtained?
Become an informed citizen in the fight against climate change with the ideas in this book.
Compelling; Hopeful
The Musical Human by Michael Spitzer
Have you wondered: Where did music come from? Why does music play such an important part of our lives? Does music have a connection with the animal world? How did cultural attitudes through the centuries define music?
An in-depth look at the fundamental role music plays in human lives.
Thought-Provoking; Engaging
A Terrible Thing to Waste by Harriet A. Washington
Have you wondered: What is environmental poisoning? Do chemicals and toxins actually lower intelligence? Why are high levels of harmful chemicals disproportionately found in communities of color? What can citizens do to advocate for less toxic environments?
This important book has the ability to provoke outrage and inspire debate about the damage being done to marginalized communities due to high levels of toxins.
Well-Researched; Evocative
