Stolen Science

So many discoveries are associated with recognized names, yet when records are examined, often it is found that others may indeed hold title to the claim. In these thirteen stories of unacknowledged scientists and inventors, science book writer Ella Schwartz shows how cultural and financial factors along with ego and the desire for glory stole recognition from those deserving credit. Among the personalities featured are paleontologist Mary Anning, physicist Lise Meitner, x-ray crystallographer Rosalyn Franklin, Cuban Carlos Juan Finlay associated with yellow fever eradication, immigrant Antonio Meucci and the telephone, former slave Jo Anderson, the mechanical reaper, and others. While these histories attempt to expose the prevailing inequities, the author admirably describes the background of these personalities and clearly describes their science training. For the preadolescent, this story presents a glimpse into various aspects of science itself, the personalities of those with a passion for pursuing their curiosity, and the hard truth that all is fair in love, war, politics, finance, and even in science where prestige wins over honor and honesty. It is a sad but engrossing tale with eye-catching illustrations.