Genius of Britain

Britain's significant contribution to the many facets of scientific progress over the centuries is highlighted in this welcome anthology of individual minibiographies of both famous and unheralded researchers. Organized into five somewhat chronological episodes and then subdivided into multiple individually accessible chapters, the nicely paced program offers researchers or general-interest viewers a variety of methods of access. Many of the narrators/hosts are recognized contemporary experts in the particular subject field of the targeted scientist, for example, naturalist David Attenborough, industrial designer James Dyson, and geneticist Paul Nurse. A rich mix of photographs, graphics, illustrations, and vintage film clips adds much to the viewing experience. Especially valuable is the final episode in which cosmologist/physicist Stephen Hawking and biologist Richard Dawkins discuss the future possibilities from the scientific community. A bonus DVD focusing on the significance of Hawking's monumental book, A Brief History of Time, while using computer graphics to explain his research and theories makes this set an unbelievable bargain. This stellar title will be a favorite for a broad variety of library patrons.—Dwain Thomas, William Rainey Harper Coll., Palatine, IL