A bit underwhelming

This book was shortlisted for the 2021 Booker Prize. From a marketing perspective, this is of course fantastic, and the publishers are making good use of it. However, it does create expectations, which, in my opinion, are not fulfilled.

Labatut outlines the lives and discoveries of various scientists. Coincidentally, they all seem to brush up against madness. Labatut appears to lean into the stereotype of the mad scientist. The discoveries also all have a dark side, which is undeniable. For example, in the development of Prussian Blue, cyanide was also discovered, which was used in gas chambers. Haber developed both chlorine gas and fertilizer. Quantum science led to the atomic bomb. The question is more, what is the message here? To expose the duality of science? In that case, you might be better off delving into the life and work of Oppenheimer for a more compelling perspective.

Is it an exploration of profound philosophical questions? About existence itself, or about whether we should sometimes slow down progress to protect humanity from catastrophe? These themes seem to hover over the narrative, but ultimately, none of it has much substance.

This book is certainly worth recommending for what it is: an enjoyable reading experience where you can learn something about the development of science over the past 100 years. Labatut describes complex concepts in an accessible way. However, if you’re expecting deep philosophical explorations about the future of science and humanity, you’re better off diving into the science fiction genre. If you’re seeking an exploration of the human condition, the classics are more applicable, and for a solid scientific exposition, I’d look elsewhere as well.

That said, Labatut writes well. His prose flows nicely, with accessible and vivid language.

This somewhat reserved attitude toward the book stems more from the discrepancy between expectation and experience. Had those expectations not been there, the rating might have been more generous.

Still, 3 stars.