The Science of Superheroes and Space Warriors: Lightsabers, Batmobiles, Kryptonite, and More!

by HowStuffWorks

Meet the biggest superheroes and villains…and find out if you have what it takes to be one Before you can start vanquishing bad guys, it's important to be schooled in saving the world. Packed with quizzes, sidebars, trivia, and more, this sensational book reveals the science behind your favorite superheroes and supervillains and their ultracool devices and weapons, as well as other awesome technologies from the science-fiction realm.

Genres: Nonfiction, Science

320 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2014

About the author

HowStuffWorks.com is the source for credible, unbiased explanations of how the world actually works. Our premise is simple: Demystify the world in a way that anyone can understand.

Reviews

[Julianne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am a Trekkie, and that's about it. As such, the three chapters devoted to Star Trek were over far too soon for me. However, it was entertaining and informative enough that I decided to read the entire book. :)

[Sarah Dunmire · Rating 2 out of 5]

The contents of this book do not live up to its title. I was expecting more science and less summaries of sci-fi series. Since I am not a Star Wars super fan, the summary of Jedi-Sith history was fun to read as well as the history of comic books and story lines of the most popular ones. The chapters dedicated to who would win between Superman and “fill-in-the-fictional character,” every manifestation of kryptonite, and how close is this hero’s identity to being blown were completely useless and unnecessary. Don’t get me wrong, I love discussing who-would-win scenarios as much as the next nerd, but that wasn’t the purpose of this book as far as it advertised itself. There were sections that did fit with its title, like the Star Trek technology that came true in real life and how. For the most part, though, this book was a hodgepodge and even delved into fantasy rather than sci-fi. Disappointed and confused.

[Adil · Rating 5 out of 5]

An illuminating glance at the science behind your favourite superheroes and characters!!

[Gretchen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Goodreads Winner

The book is broken into two sections, the first being about comic books, superheroes, and superhero powers. The second part is about the science behind all the gadgets and if they are really possible. The first part was really fun, especially breaking down who would win in a battle of superhero vs. other super powerful people. Admittedly, I kind of skipped the Star Trek section since I'm not a fan. The second half of the book got a little too "science-y" for me. I'm sure if you had an engineer mind like my husband you would love it though! Overall it's a pretty interesting read though.

[Ali · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good geeky fun. Not only did I enjoy it, but my third-grader (a devoted lover of science, engineering, and all things Star Wars ) thought it was awesome, and it was fun sharing the book with him.

My favorite part? The "Superman vs 'X'" chapter, which sparked some lively dinner conversation here at Nerd Central.

[Ed · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty good. The part where they actually get into the science of various science fiction devices in the best part. Since it's written by a group of people, the tone and writing styles vary from chapter to chapter. Still, an enjoyable, light read.

[Dottiemouse · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book for geeks like me. It was full of quizzes, trivia and much more. It put the science into my favorite scifi fandoms.

[Bladestryke · Rating 4 out of 5]

A must have for any sci fi fan! Packed full of entertaining info and surprises!