I picked up this book as part of my Outer Space reads for my 2026 theme of Outer Space.
It is billed by the publisher as " . Chanda Prescod-Weinstein shares her love for physics, from the Standard Model of Particle Physics and what lies beyond it, to the physics of melanin in skin, to the latest theories of dark matter—all with a new spin informed by history, politics, and the wisdom of Star Trek."
Having thought about this for a few days now, I don't know that I really felt the love of physics or the universe cut through. I do feel that I've gained an understanding of how very difficult it is for people who aren't white to be heard and seen in the world of physics. It was not at all surprising to me to read that frankly, the world of science is also very content to enforce the status-quo, rather than to seek to really engage in what would surely be the messy and challenging work or re-imagining how science could indeed become more inclusive overall.
Prescod-Weinstein skillfully blends her own experiences in with experiences of other persons working in the same or similar fields, and in that blending comes a new way of thinking about how others can best support those interested in and currently working in science fields. I was particularly struck by her ideas of freedom- which resonated so heavily with me. She should not, indeed, have to be contemplating the secrets of the universe while also attempting to help housekeeping services at her institution get paid a living wage. All children should indeed be able to study the cosmos with appropriate resources regardless of their talent.
This was a book I did have to engage with heavily, as it was dense and went in directions that the blurb and cover didn't exactly advertise. I think it was well put together, and had many interesting ideas. It is a perfect book for professors and teachers who work with students who are interested in STEM fields. In fact, it is so perfect for this, that Hachette does offer Desk/Exam copies for those wanting to use this in their classrooms. ( Look HERE for the form to request Desk copies).
So... I don't think I do recommend this as a book to bump up your physics knowledge. I do recommend it as one for readers who are curious about how science shapes their every day life, and how it could be done better.
First Published : March 2021
Pages: 336
Available as an Audio Book : YES
Trigger Warnings: racism, sexism, rape, mental health, medical trauma, misogyny, systemic oppression. (this is not a full list, read responsibly)
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