Description

From Ada Lovelace to Florence Nightingale, Rosalind Franklin to Tu Youyou – discover the women who changed science forever

Imagine a scientist. White lab coat and goggles… check! A passing resemblance to Albert Einstein… yes, that too. So, most likely it’s a man. However, from radiation to climate change, pulsars to the Earth’s core – women have always stood at the forefront of scientific discovery.

Learn how Ada Lovelace’s tumultuous upbringing created the first computer programmer. Join Marie Curie as she discovers two elements and earns two Nobel prizes, all before the age of forty-five. Learn how Katherine Johnson launched the first American into space – defiant in the face of institutional racism.

A timely addition to the growing global conversation around the future of science – and who gets to shape it – A History of Science in 21 Women is a paradigm-shifting exploration of the scientists who history tried, and failed, to brush under the carpet, and why their stories still matter today.

Publisher Review

‘This book celebrates the lives and achievements of 21 women who achieved significant scientific feats. The book is both inspiring, for the persistence of these scientists in navigating the obstacles placed in their paths, and frustrating in that they had so much to overcome.’ -Dame Sarah Gilbert ‘This is a rich and thought-provoking read that raises important questions about the role of gender stereotypes and bias in all kinds of research.’ -Dr Gwen Adshead, author of The Devil You Know ‘A fast-paced journey that deftly navigates the complex stories of women in science, shining a light on lesser-known figures as well as familiar names like Curie and Lovelace. Biggs’ book is a must-read for STEMinists and history lovers.’ -Dr Alanna Skuse, author of The Surgeon, The Midwife, The Quack