Read all about it! Discover the latest books by Society alumni - Society for Science Skip to content

Read all about it! Discover the latest books by Society alumni

By Chyna Vargas

Celebrate the season by exploring books published by Society for Science alumni.

October is National Book Month. Celebrate the season by exploring books published by Society for Science alumni.  These are great reads to usher in this cozy season or a thoughtful holiday gift!

Explore the unique works, ranging from science fiction to nonfiction.

Ira Chinoy (STS 1971), now a professor and journalist at the University of Maryland, authored “Predicting the Winner: The Untold Story of Election Night 1952 and the Dawn of Computer Forecasting.” The book is about the origins of television election forecasting and how it has shaped elections today. Those who have read the book say they have enjoyed learning about historic changes to election tracking and projections. Reviews on Goodreads suggest that those who are interested in journalism, elections, politics or U.S. history will surely enjoy this book! One reviewer on Amazon described the book, saying, “Ira Chinoy’s story about using computers to forecast the outcome of the 1952 election is full of surprises and unlikely serendipities that constantly grab your attention.”

Science Under Siege: How to Fight the Five Most Powerful Forces that Threaten Our World was co-authored by Peter Hotez (STS 1976) and Michael E. Mann. Drawing on their scientific expertise, the authors confront the rise of anti-science narratives. In a constantly changing society, this book addresses some of the common scientific issues from the climate crisis to pandemics. The book aims to shift politically and ideologically motivated opposition to science by offering insights, evidence and potential solutions. Reviewers say they appreciate the thoughtful, evidence-based approach the authors have taken in dismantling misinformation and proposing new ways to defend scientific truth. As one Amazon reviewer wrote: “Two of America’s preeminent scientists have written a book together on the current assault on science. With multitudes of cited sources and footnotes, each allegation is carefully analyzed.” – Alexander C. Hale from Amazon reviews

Janie Kim, Broadcom MASTERS alum from San Diego, Calif., wrote and published her book “We Carry the Sea In Our Hands,” A science fiction story that explores family, trauma and a woman’s journey back to her roots. Reviews mention how readers have particularly enjoyed the science element to the story about Abby, a Korean orphan who grows up to be a biologist. Audiences say the story is beautifully told, capturing both the heartbreak of loss and the joy of finding what’s been lost.  As one Amazon review puts it, “Janie Kim’s portrayal of family, grief, friendship and regret was an emotional rollercoaster in the best way possible.”

 Are you one of the Society’s alumni? Do you have a published book? Reach out and let us know!

 

 

Chyna Vargas