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Science of Superheroes: The Secrets Behind Speed, Strength, Flight, Evolution, and More
The concept of the superhero has permeated our culture. They fascinate their fans with their incredible superhuman abilities and impressive technology. But do you ever wonder if any of it is plausible or rooted in fact? Enter The Science of Superheroes, which address more than fifty topics that span the worlds of your favorite superheroes and villains. Explore and examine their amazing abilities and fantastic gadgets with a detailed scientific lens. The scientific questions examined within this book include: -Can an Iron Man suit be made? -How does Thor's hammer work? -Could any known forms of radiation cause superpowers? -How many calories does Superman need each day? -Could you cross a Lamborghini and a hummer to make the Batmobile Tumbler? -And many more! Whether you're a movie or comic buff, this book is certain to entertain and open your eyes to the truth behind these amazing characters.
- GenresNonfictionScience
212 pages, Paperback
First published April 3, 2018
20 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
May 13, 2022
This book is touted as a scientific examination of superhero powers, but I found it to be at least as much the author's speculative fantasies as actual scientific fact. Therefore- disappointing.
Additionally, he made rather sweeping generalizations, took things off in odd directions that didn't go anywhere, and sprinkled all that with the type of humor that makes you say, "He thinks that's funny but..."
Example: "...James "Logan" Howlett has a mutant way of living a long life through an accelerated healing factor and enhanced senses, though you do wonder if he's ever able to totally relax when he's picking his nose."
I really don't wonder about that.
Sentences like that made this book difficult to get through even WITH a mutant healing factor.
Not recommended.
Additionally, he made rather sweeping generalizations, took things off in odd directions that didn't go anywhere, and sprinkled all that with the type of humor that makes you say, "He thinks that's funny but..."
Example: "...James "Logan" Howlett has a mutant way of living a long life through an accelerated healing factor and enhanced senses, though you do wonder if he's ever able to totally relax when he's picking his nose."
I really don't wonder about that.
Sentences like that made this book difficult to get through even WITH a mutant healing factor.
Not recommended.
June 30, 2018
Another giveaway from the American Library Association conference in New Orleans.”The Science of Superheroes: the secrets behind speed, strength, flight, evolution and more” by Mark Brake was interesting but not really all science. Some of it was more metaphysics and psychology than physics (the emotional and life quality toll of living forever) and not all of it was about superheroes but as much general science fiction and fantasy, not a bad thing just not what was advertised. Some ideas particularly when the author focused squarely on science offered neat ways to look at how heroes might operate in and be affected by the real world (factors like body mass and light refraction) but it was overall a little unfocused and seemed to be trying to do too much. It is an easy read and I knocked out in a few days on my train back and forth to work but there are other and more focused works on this topic and related ones: such as The Physics of Superheroes or The Law of Superheroes that are better starting points than this one.
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January 7, 2025Book Review: The Science of Superheroes: The Secrets Behind Speed, Strength, Flight, Evolution, and More* by Mark Brake and Jon Chase
The Science of Superheroes promises an intriguing exploration of the scientific principles behind our favorite comic book powers, from superhuman speed to flight. However, what unfolds between its covers is a mixed bag of speculative fantasies and scientific facts that often leads to disappointment for readers hoping for a cohesive analysis.
Brake and Chase’s approach attempts to blend humor with scientific inquiry, yet the end result is marred by sweeping generalizations and tangential discussions that meander into irrelevant territory. For an audience that may be eager to learn about the real-world implications of superhero abilities, the authors frequently veer off course, leaving readers feeling disoriented rather than enlightened.
One of the book's glaring shortcomings is its inconsistent tone and effectiveness of humor. While the authors likely intended to engage their audience with wit and levity, many of the attempts at humor fall flat. Readers may find themselves cringing rather than chuckling, as jokes often miss the mark or feel forced, detracting from the more serious scientific discussions the book aspires to present.
A prime example of this disregard for relevance comes in a section where the authors delve into a character’s personal life rather than focusing on the scientific exploration of their powers. Such digressions not only confuse the narrative but also dilute the potential insights the book could have offered about the science underpinning our beloved superheroes.
As a consequence of these issues, the writing style can be a challenge to navigate. Readers may find themselves wading through unclear arguments and convoluted explanations, detracting from what could have been a straightforward examination of superhero lore through a scientific lens.
In conclusion, The Science of Superheroes by Mark Brake and Jon Chase presents a compelling premise but ultimately fails to deliver a satisfying reading experience. While the idea of analyzing superhero powers through the lens of science is an enticing one, the execution is hampered by irrelevant content, poor humor, and a disjointed writing style. For those seeking a thoughtful exploration of the intersection between science and the superhero genre, it may be best to look elsewhere.
The Science of Superheroes promises an intriguing exploration of the scientific principles behind our favorite comic book powers, from superhuman speed to flight. However, what unfolds between its covers is a mixed bag of speculative fantasies and scientific facts that often leads to disappointment for readers hoping for a cohesive analysis.
Brake and Chase’s approach attempts to blend humor with scientific inquiry, yet the end result is marred by sweeping generalizations and tangential discussions that meander into irrelevant territory. For an audience that may be eager to learn about the real-world implications of superhero abilities, the authors frequently veer off course, leaving readers feeling disoriented rather than enlightened.
One of the book's glaring shortcomings is its inconsistent tone and effectiveness of humor. While the authors likely intended to engage their audience with wit and levity, many of the attempts at humor fall flat. Readers may find themselves cringing rather than chuckling, as jokes often miss the mark or feel forced, detracting from the more serious scientific discussions the book aspires to present.
A prime example of this disregard for relevance comes in a section where the authors delve into a character’s personal life rather than focusing on the scientific exploration of their powers. Such digressions not only confuse the narrative but also dilute the potential insights the book could have offered about the science underpinning our beloved superheroes.
As a consequence of these issues, the writing style can be a challenge to navigate. Readers may find themselves wading through unclear arguments and convoluted explanations, detracting from what could have been a straightforward examination of superhero lore through a scientific lens.
In conclusion, The Science of Superheroes by Mark Brake and Jon Chase presents a compelling premise but ultimately fails to deliver a satisfying reading experience. While the idea of analyzing superhero powers through the lens of science is an enticing one, the execution is hampered by irrelevant content, poor humor, and a disjointed writing style. For those seeking a thoughtful exploration of the intersection between science and the superhero genre, it may be best to look elsewhere.
July 3, 2023
This book came out at the wrong time. It predates the arrival of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and so a few of the now more famous superheroes are missing. At the time, no one probably noticed, but it does make it feel a bit dated.
In some respects there are two books in one here. Each entry starts off with a small history of the character and the comic industry at the time. These are very interesting and never outstay their welcome. These entries are then followed up by a discussion of their powers and how they work or most usually, fail to work. The science part is kept light, but it is clear how things stand.
This isn't a bad book, but if it hasn't occurred already, then an updated version would be timely.
In some respects there are two books in one here. Each entry starts off with a small history of the character and the comic industry at the time. These are very interesting and never outstay their welcome. These entries are then followed up by a discussion of their powers and how they work or most usually, fail to work. The science part is kept light, but it is clear how things stand.
This isn't a bad book, but if it hasn't occurred already, then an updated version would be timely.
December 1, 2019
Some of the chapters were more filler than anything.
January 15, 2023
This book was an interesting mix of overly complicated unnecessary science words and the author hating on every single superhero and villain ever. Needless to say, it did not turn out well.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews