We Are All Stardust

February 1, 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

Copyright 2016 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 15, 2015
Physicist Klein (The Science of Happiness, 2006) conducted 19 interviews with scientists around the world on a wide range of traditional and unorthodox subjects. From popularly recognized names such as primatologist Jane Goodall and evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins to cosmologist Martin Rees and anthropologist Sarah Hrdy, Klein has chosen an eclectic group to tackle everything from expected questions about their areas of study to issues concerning religion, morality, pain, and parenthood. The relaxed, question-and-answer format gives the book a freewheeling and comfortable air. Klein is exceedingly well read in the work of his interviewees, and they exchange ideas with ease, moving readily from deeply technical concepts to pop culture, making for a very 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, often from the least expected sources (the immortality of the single-celled ciliates!), and the book's diversionary aspect cannot be overrated. Truly enjoyable.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2015, American Library Association.)