MEGALODONS, MERMAIDS, AND CLIMATE CHANGE

“Questions are the lifeblood of learning,” the authors proclaim, and questions—and answers—abound in this reader-friendly tome.

In an effort to “promote improved understanding and combat misinformation” in an age where the latter is far too prevalent, marine scientist Prager and meteorologist Jones have compiled “some of the most frequently asked and zaniest questions” they and their colleagues have encountered. Each chapter explores a variety of topics related to an overarching subject that’s adjacent to the authors’ respective fields, including marine life and ocean health, extreme weather, astronomy, and the dangers of scientific illiteracy. The chapter entitled “Supernatural, Suspicious, or Science” covers such far-ranging matters as rumors about the Bermuda Triangle, lenticular clouds (which are often mistaken for UFOs), and the science behind so-called chemtrails. The authors present information in a detailed, frank, and conversational manner and clearly explain technical terms. The book includes sobering information about current risks to the environment and the impact human activity has had on it. The text doesn’t sugarcoat the dire nature of climate change, but it is lightened and enlivened by a fair amount of humor, especially in Birnbach's scattered cartoon spot art. The work lends itself to being read cover to cover or dipped into by those who wish to learn more about a specific area, enhancing its usefulness.

A solid and engaging overview of a host of scientific concepts.