First, Mormon Scientist: The Life and Faith of Henry Eyring by Henry J. Eyring
I really, really enjoyed this book. This biography of Henry Eyring (father of President Henry B. Eyring) was written by his grandson. Eyring was a widely recognized scientist whose absolute rate theory (one of the most important developments of 20th-century chemistry) won him the National Medal of Science in 1966. He was a contemporary of Einstein among other famous scientists. It was a surprise to many that he never won the Nobel prize however I believe he was nominated on more than one occasion.
His scientific achievements were more than admirable. However, what was truly remarkable was that as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - he surprised his colleagues by his unwavering faith and ability to reconcile science and religion without difficulty. In fact, he became quite a resource for the leaders of the church regarding members' issues with the theory of evolution and the age of the earth. Interestingly he even had several lively discussions with Joseph F. Smith on the topic.
There are a few parts of the book that are kind of technical but it is worth trying to dig through it. There are other parts of the book that are very enlightening. I also was delighted to learn that I share a common ancestor with Henry Eyring- we're related! (You can also read my post on www.desperateread.blogspot.com) ***Jennette - I thought of Adam when I read this - Eyring did research at Berkeley for a while and had a strong physics background. Has he read it?
The second book I just recently finished was The Tenant of Wildfell Hall (recommended on Desperate For a Good Read). This was written by Anne Bronte of the Bronte sisters and it definitely fits the genre of books that I love to read! But be aware - this is no Jane Austen. There are parts that are dark and disturbing. However, the ending is satisfying. If you like these kinds of books - you will enjoy it. I am looking forward to watching the BBC adaptation.
3 comments:
If you need to borrow the BBC adaptation I own it. I need to actually read the book.
Thanks for the recommendation! I'm sure that Adam would be really interested in this. He had told me some of what he knew about Eyring's history and his close encounter with the Nobel prize (amazing!). This will go on our list for sure. Thanks.
Could I borrow those books? They both sound good.
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