I have always loved science and mathematics, but I know that many people find these subjects dry and boring. So I decided to share my own love of mathematical science by telling the stories of some of my scientific heroes and heroines, and explaining scientific and mathematical concepts through their work.
In 2003 I published my first book, Einstein’s Heroes: Imagining the World through the Language of Mathematics, which was shortlisted for two major literary awards, and has been translated into several languages. Next came Seduced by Logic: Émilie Du Châtelet, Mary Somerville and the Newtonian Revolution, which is about two pioneering female scientists. It was also shortlisted, and is currently being translated into Chinese. My third book was the best-selling kindle single Young Einstein: And the Story of E=mc2, and my fourth will be published in New York next year.
I do hope that my books help to foster the public understanding and appreciation of science, by making accessible its colourful history and bringing to life some of its key pioneers.
Arianrhod’s achievement is to so masterfully combine history, biography, and mathematics as to absorb and enlighten even the mathematically maladroit. – Booklist
Arianrhod is an infectiously enthusiastic writer, keen for her audience both to admire Einstein’s heroes and to understand their contributions to fundamental mathematical physics. – Nature Physics
An intriguing blend of science, history, and biography…. Arianrhod’s well-written, fascinating discussion of intertwined topics not usually presented in one book aimed at general readers is highly recommended. – Library Journal (starred review)
Offers readers an engaging intellectual exercise combining physics, language, mathematics, and biography. – Science News
A thrilling story…. Arianrhod is an easy author to like, and not simply for the clarity of her narrative. She brings out the human side of the scientists. She also is a student of imaginative prose: Her explication of a novel by the Australian David Malouf helps introduce ideas about mathematics, and she quotes the poet William Blake to crystallize a thought about Maxwell…. Scientists’ quest for knowledge is exhilarating to Arianrhod, and she conveys that to the reader. – bloombergnews.com
‘[I]mpressively far-reaching … Arianrhod takes the wide scope of her book as an opportunity to discuss Newtonian mathematics, the history of the Enlightenment, and women’s education, to name just a few of her subjects. And no matter what the topic, her prose is natural, graceful and lucid.’ Readings
‘It is impossible not to be caught up in Arianrhod’s enthusiasm for her subject and I was gripped from the first page.’ Weekend Australian
‘The lives of these two fascinating women and their love of Newton’s work are revealed in Seduced by Logic, which includes explanations of scientific theory.’ Bookseller Publisher
‘An enjoyable book for those who like a serving of scandal with their science.’ Cosmos
‘An elegant and inspiring history of how scientific revolutions make their way.’ Edward Dolnick, author of The Clockwork Universe
