Join best-selling science writer James Trefil on a fascinating field trip into the modern city that will open your eyes to the hidden wonders of the man-made world around you. Trefil teaches some surprising truths about the forces that shape our world, as well as some unusual possibilities for the cities of tomorrow.
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“The book can be read, and very enjoyably too, straight through. I can, as well, be used for research papers. It contains wonderful descriptions of scientific processes. The author stresses the need for understanding the laws of nature as technologies develop, as opposed to the use of ‘clever techniques,’ and he makes the learning of many of these laws almost painless.” — School Library Journal
“The book can be read, and very enjoyably too, straight through. I can, as well, be used for research papers. It contains wonderful descriptions of scientific processes. The author stresses the need for understanding the laws of nature as technologies develop, as opposed to the use of ‘clever techniques,’ and he makes the learning of many of these laws almost painless.”
“Trefil offers deft analogies to explain invisible forces like gravity in building architecture…[He has a] particular talent for lively explanation.”
“Emphasize[s] the ingenuity of engineers who figured out not only how to defy gravity, wind, and earthquakes but also how to communicate at high speeds in the digital language of bits and pixels. A refreshingly objective look at cities as technological marvels rather than aberrations of civilization.”
“Trefil’s appeal, as always, is in his painless presentation of the ideas: He beguiles with felicitous analogies…Laypeople’s science from one of the best in the business.”
" Not a bad book, but not terribly engaging and there must be a better and more up-to-date book on the subject out by now. "
Jim Meskimen is a stage, film, and television actor who has appeared in many well-known movies and television shows. He acted in Apollo 13 and Frost/Nixon for director Ron Howard, both of which were nominated for Best Picture Oscars. His television appearances include The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Friends, Lie to Me, Criminal Minds, and Parks and Recreation. He is also a painter, award-winning audiobook narrator, and audiobook director for Galaxy Audio.
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