We’re into August, the final stretch of the summer, but there’s still plenty of time to fit in some beach or patio reading. Prepare to be gripped by some great sci-fi action, or for something a little more contemplative, dip into some intriguing science options. Let’s go!
Ten Days in Physics that Shook the World: How Physicists Transformed Everyday Life by Brian Clegg
Where better place to start than physics! It’s hard not to be drawn in by such an intriguing title in this latest by prolific science writer Clegg. Here, he focuses on the practical applications of physics and the sometimes little-known people behind inventions we now take for granted.
The Scavenger Door by Suzanne Palmer
Fergus Ferguson, interstellar repo man and professional finder, inadvertently ends up with an ancient alien artifact that could spell plenty of trouble both for him and the entire solar system. Expect a fun, action-packed read in book 3 of the Finder Chronicles series
What’s the Use?: How Mathematics Shapes Everyday Life by Ian Stewart
Written by a professor responsible for public awareness of science and math, this title promises to be a fascinating and accessible overview both of math history and its applications in our modern world. Topics include space exploration and augmented reality.
The Exiled Fleet by J. S. Dewes
Adequin Rake and her band of Sentinels (the military no one wanted) are back as they battle for survival in this, the second installment in The Divide series. Expect fast-paced, sci-fi action combined with great characterization and world-building.
Drought, Flood, Fire: How Climate Changes Contributes to Catastrophes by Chris C. Funk
Climatologist Funk examines recent extreme weather events and their devastating effect on us and our planet, as well as on our economies. Sadly, more relevant than ever in this summer of forest fires and floods, this is a timely call to action as well as a good general overview of climate science.
Citadel by Marko Kloos
Prefer your space opera with a military edge? You’ll want to catch up with Kloos’ Frontlines series and Palladium Wars, of which Citadel is the third installment. Page-turning action told from multiple points-of-view. Another guaranteed winner from this hugely-popular author.
About Time: A History of Civilization in Twelve Clocks by David Rooney
And now for something completely different… a history of clocks! Rooney takes us on an entertaining timepiece tour from ancient Roman sundials through to a clock made of plutonium, encompassing the scientific, cultural, and political along the way.
Light Chaser by Peter F. Hamilton & Gareth L. Powell
And it’s time (sorry…) for even more action-packed sci-fi in this intriguing novella-length collaboration between Hamilton (Salvation Sequence) and Powell (Embers of War). Set in the far future, it follows a lone explorer and her AI as they collect stories and memories across the galaxy, eventually uncovering a sinister threat to humanity.
Have a great rest of the summer, hopefully with plenty of relaxation and reading time. See you in September for more sci-fi and science!
Need to catch up?
New reads for July
New reads for June
