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Are We Alone?: Scientists Search for Life in Space

Posted on: Sunday, 2 January 2005, 03:00 CST

Gloria Skurzynski Are We Alone?: Scientists Search for Life in Space 92 pp. National Geographic 6/04 ISBN 0-7922-6567-X $19.95 Library edition ISBN 0-7922-6967-5 $28.90 (Intermediate, Middle School)

Skurzynski cleanly separates what is scientifically possible from what is fantasy regarding life beyond our planet, then examines the many different disciplines that can help us answer questions about extraterrestrial life. While the author thoroughly describes the work of the well-known SETI (Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence) Institute, it is her discussion of research in the fields of planetary geology, astronomy, exobiology, and mathematics that makes the book unique

. Profiled scientists in these areas (who explain their childhood interest in science in text boxes) are searching for planets in distant solar systems, looking for evidence of life on Mars or Europa (one of Jupiter's moons), examining the extreme conditions under which life exists on Earth, and considering what it means to be alive or intelligent. Skurzynski skillfully navigates the tricky terminology from multiple disciplines by using technical jargon in an understandable yet rigorous manner. The well- placed color photographs and illustrations are important tools in helping readers to understand the science-or scientific imaginings- of the featured researchers. A bibliography, glossary, list of quote sources, and an index further enhance the presentation. D.J.F. Copyright Horn Book, Incorporated Jan/Feb 2005

Source: Horn Book Magazine, The

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