THE NEXT FIFTY YEARS Science in the First Half of the Twenty-First Century

Twenty-five essays written by high-powered scientists look at what the future holds for their discipline. Most authors start with the status quo to provide background for their look forward, with an evolutionary biologist predicting a cheap gene analysis that will predict our natural end. Having three good readers adept at esoteric scientific vocabulary and taking turns with the brief compositions allows listeners to realize when the author has changed. They also demonstrate how a skilled narrator can add a nice flavor to insipid facts. The sophistication of the articles may challenge nonscience majors but will thrill minds looking for audiobooks a cut above the usual bestseller. J.A.H. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 02/ JAN 03]