Headstrong | Rachel Swaby | Reviewed by Rachel
*Image and review copy c/o
Blogging for Books
Summary:
Swaby has collected information on, and written
mini-biographies for, 52 women whose contributions to math and science helped
us all to better understand the world we live in.
Review:
This book covers the lifespans of women ranging from 1647
(Maria Sibylla Merian) to 2014 (Stephanie Kwolek). It is almost impossible to
read this book without learning, not just about each woman, but also about the
science she worked on and at least some the history of her time-period. This
book is highly informative and well researched, as any book on scientists
should be. However, Swaby is also able to bring in an emotional aspect that
does not distract from the science of the contributions. Most of the emotions
involved are anger at the unfairness of women not being paid for their work or
not being given actual lab space despite their well demonstrated abilities. I
also appreciate Swaby including other emotions, like love, “When [Gerty] could
no longer make the trek from one room in the lab to the other, [her husband]
scooped her up and carried her, working together until the end.” (Pg. 18) But
the biggest feeling you get from this book is the dedication these women have
to science. Be it because they love science itself or they love the mental
stimulation, it is impossible not to pick up on this.
I was personally amazed at just how many women were involved
in science that I’ve never heard about, especially given their major
contributions. Alice Ball found a way for oil based, injectable medicines to be
easily absorbed by the body. Hedy Lamarr gave us the foundation for Wi-Fi. How
did I not know about these women before? I also appreciated that Swaby did not
include a mini-biography about Marie Curie “[b]ecause Marie Curie is who we
talk about when we talk about women in science…” (Pg. xiii) We all know her.
This book was created for the lesser known, yet incredibly influential, women
scientists.
Not only is Headstrong well researched, it’s well
written. Swaby is unable to give any one scientist more than 6 pages due to the
sheer number of people. Yet I found this to be a perfect way to read this book.
I am introduced to each scientist, their work, and their life in a very succinct
yet still meaningful manner. Because of this, the reader never feels bored or
bogged down by facts.
I happily recommend this book to anyone with even an inkling
of interest in science, history of science, or women’s studies. You will have a good time reading this book.
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