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Crash Test Girl: An Unlikely Experiment in Using the Scientific Method to Answer Life's Toughest Questions
Kari Byron—former host of the wildly popular, iconic cult classic MythBusters—shows how to crash test your way through life, no lab coat required.
Kari Byron’s story hasn’t been a straight line. She started out as a broke artist living in San Francisco, writing poems on a crowded bus on the way to one of her three jobs. Many curve balls, unexpected twists, and yes, literal and figurative explosions later, and she’s one of the world’s most respected women in science entertainment, blowing stuff up on national television and getting paid for it! In Crash Test Girl, Kari reveals her fascinating life story on the set of MythBusters and beyond. With her signature gusto and roll-up-your-sleeves enthusiasm, she invites readers behind the duct tape and the dynamite, to the unlikely friendships and low-budget sets that turned a crazy idea into a famously inventive show with a rabid fanbase.
The truth is, MythBusters was never meant to be a science show. But attaching a rocket to a car, riding a motorcycle on water, or lighting 500 pounds of coffee creamer on fire requires a decent understanding of chemistry, physics, and engineering. Thus, the cast and crew brought in the scientific method to work through each problem: Question. Hypothesize. Analyze. Experiment. Conclude. And as Kari came to learn in her own life, not only is the scientific method the best approach for busting myths, it’s also the perfect tool for solving everyday issues, including:
Career · Love · Creativity · Setbacks · Money · Sexuality · Depression · Bravery
Crash Test Girl reminds us that science is for everyone, as long as you’re willing to strap in, put on your safety goggles, hit a few walls, and learn from the results. Using a combination of methodical experimentation and unconventional creativity, you’ll come to the most important conclusion of all: In life, sometimes you crash and burn, but you can always crash and learn.
Kari Byron’s story hasn’t been a straight line. She started out as a broke artist living in San Francisco, writing poems on a crowded bus on the way to one of her three jobs. Many curve balls, unexpected twists, and yes, literal and figurative explosions later, and she’s one of the world’s most respected women in science entertainment, blowing stuff up on national television and getting paid for it! In Crash Test Girl, Kari reveals her fascinating life story on the set of MythBusters and beyond. With her signature gusto and roll-up-your-sleeves enthusiasm, she invites readers behind the duct tape and the dynamite, to the unlikely friendships and low-budget sets that turned a crazy idea into a famously inventive show with a rabid fanbase.
The truth is, MythBusters was never meant to be a science show. But attaching a rocket to a car, riding a motorcycle on water, or lighting 500 pounds of coffee creamer on fire requires a decent understanding of chemistry, physics, and engineering. Thus, the cast and crew brought in the scientific method to work through each problem: Question. Hypothesize. Analyze. Experiment. Conclude. And as Kari came to learn in her own life, not only is the scientific method the best approach for busting myths, it’s also the perfect tool for solving everyday issues, including:
Career · Love · Creativity · Setbacks · Money · Sexuality · Depression · Bravery
Crash Test Girl reminds us that science is for everyone, as long as you’re willing to strap in, put on your safety goggles, hit a few walls, and learn from the results. Using a combination of methodical experimentation and unconventional creativity, you’ll come to the most important conclusion of all: In life, sometimes you crash and burn, but you can always crash and learn.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published May 8, 2018
98 people are currently reading
1431 people want to read
About the author
Kari Byron
3 books54 followersKari Byron has been the most recognizable, honored, and beloved woman in science-based reality TV for over fifteen years. On the Discovery Channel, she hosted MythBusters, the network’s flagship show (and its biggest, longest-running hit, with millions of viewers per episode) from 2003 to 2016. On the Science Channel, Kari hosted Punkin Chunkin and Large, Dangerous Rocket Ships, and produced, created, and hosted Head Rush. She also stars in the Nat Geo series Positive Energy She lives in San Francisco.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
August 10, 2018
Reading Kari Byron's Crash Test Girl is like having a conversation with a trusted friend. Warm, funny, and full of wisdom, this memoir/self-help guide uses the clever format of experimentation, a nod to Byron's time on the Discovery Channel show MythBusters.
Each chapter focuses on an aspect of Byron's life, ranging from love to money to creativity, and begins with a related anecdote, often from the MythBusters shop. Then Byron delves into her personal history, recounting episodes from her teenage years, 20s adventures, or love life and calling them "crash tests," "hypotheses," and "experiments." This structure could easily disrupt the narrative, but it does the opposite, keeping the theme of each chapter at the center of attention and reminding the reader of Byron's science-based perspective.
Despite this being her first outing into a written artistic form, Byron's voice is compelling and very personable. She writes like I imagine she talks—the language is accessible but full of insight. I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that I didn't want to put this book down! I learned so much about Byron's life and feel inspired to go out into the world and experiment with life a little bit!
Each chapter focuses on an aspect of Byron's life, ranging from love to money to creativity, and begins with a related anecdote, often from the MythBusters shop. Then Byron delves into her personal history, recounting episodes from her teenage years, 20s adventures, or love life and calling them "crash tests," "hypotheses," and "experiments." This structure could easily disrupt the narrative, but it does the opposite, keeping the theme of each chapter at the center of attention and reminding the reader of Byron's science-based perspective.
Despite this being her first outing into a written artistic form, Byron's voice is compelling and very personable. She writes like I imagine she talks—the language is accessible but full of insight. I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that I didn't want to put this book down! I learned so much about Byron's life and feel inspired to go out into the world and experiment with life a little bit!
May 15, 2018
A Great Book For Young Women
I know that I am by far not the target audience for this book but I still enjoyed it. I was a huge Mythbusters fan and I did enjoy White Rabbit Project so when I saw that Kari was writing a book I had to have it. When I saw that she was releasing an audiobook and narrating it herself I was even more excited.
Crash Test Girl gives life lessons from a woman who's "crash tested" her way through life's major and minor decisions. It is full of advice on how to be a strong and modern woman in these new times and how to stand up for yourself in both life and at work. Being a feminist I loved the advice that she is giving young women out there.
I did find a lot of her backstory interesting. I didn't realize how little I knew about her until I got about 2 hours into this book. She is a fascinating study in doing things her way and crashing into the right decision (or finding out its the wrong one and owning it).
I knew when I watched Mythbusters that Kari being part of the show was important, but as a male I wasn't sure just how important. I'm glad that someone convinced her to write a book and I hope that teachers and parents are smart enough to let their students and daughters check this book out. I think they'll enjoy it and learn to be stronger and more well-rounded women for it.
I know that I am by far not the target audience for this book but I still enjoyed it. I was a huge Mythbusters fan and I did enjoy White Rabbit Project so when I saw that Kari was writing a book I had to have it. When I saw that she was releasing an audiobook and narrating it herself I was even more excited.
Crash Test Girl gives life lessons from a woman who's "crash tested" her way through life's major and minor decisions. It is full of advice on how to be a strong and modern woman in these new times and how to stand up for yourself in both life and at work. Being a feminist I loved the advice that she is giving young women out there.
I did find a lot of her backstory interesting. I didn't realize how little I knew about her until I got about 2 hours into this book. She is a fascinating study in doing things her way and crashing into the right decision (or finding out its the wrong one and owning it).
I knew when I watched Mythbusters that Kari being part of the show was important, but as a male I wasn't sure just how important. I'm glad that someone convinced her to write a book and I hope that teachers and parents are smart enough to let their students and daughters check this book out. I think they'll enjoy it and learn to be stronger and more well-rounded women for it.
June 23, 2019
While it had its moments, Crash Test Girl lacks the cohesiveness needed to really work. Sometimes it reads like a guide for teen girls, sometimes it reads like an Eat, Pray, Love-style book of self discovery, and sometimes it's just a memoir. The illustrations and asides are nice; however, they are placed at random, often cutting off a thought mid-sentence for two pages (that would be forgivable for illustrations, but it's completely ill-placed for the written asides). A little bit of focus--and perhaps actually picking an audience--would have done wonders for this book.
September 8, 2018
4.5 stars for this excellent biography
Kari Byron recounts her career, life and her experiences with the Mythbusters. Covering everything from her early days in school, her interest in art and science, relationships, metal health and a host of other subject, this is well written biography. Kari includes both the good and the bad and doen't shy away from some of the more negative experiences she has had. Prominently featured in all this is also her role as a woman in both the field of science and entertainment. Some of the more strained behind-the-scenes stuff comes to light, but also the inspiring uplift and encouragement from other woman who were inspired by her example.
Summarized, if you are a fan of either the Mythbusters or Kari Byron herself (Yes! and Yes!) then this is and excellent book for you .
Kari Byron recounts her career, life and her experiences with the Mythbusters. Covering everything from her early days in school, her interest in art and science, relationships, metal health and a host of other subject, this is well written biography. Kari includes both the good and the bad and doen't shy away from some of the more negative experiences she has had. Prominently featured in all this is also her role as a woman in both the field of science and entertainment. Some of the more strained behind-the-scenes stuff comes to light, but also the inspiring uplift and encouragement from other woman who were inspired by her example.
Summarized, if you are a fan of either the Mythbusters or Kari Byron herself (Yes! and Yes!) then this is and excellent book for you .
September 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars – A Must-Listen for MythBusters Fans and Trailblazers Alike
Crash Test Girl by Kari Byron is a raw, riveting, and inspirational listen that had me hooked from the very first chapter. Picked completely at random via BolindaAudio, this 7-hour audiobook (read by Kari herself) was an unexpected gem that left a lasting impact.
Best known as one of the fearless co-hosts of MythBusters, Kari Byron opens the door to her life with honesty, humour, and vulnerability. If you're a fan of the show or admire women breaking boundaries in STEM and entertainment, this is an absolute must.
The audiobook delves into some surprisingly dark and personal moments—including a chilling account of a high-ranking producer whose narcissistic behaviour will absolutely shock you. Kari doesn't hold back in discussing the emotional toll of navigating a male-dominated industry and how she had to "muscle in" just to be seen and heard. Her journey is both heartbreaking and empowering.
Narrated in her own voice, Kari brings her story to life with the same intelligence, curiosity, and grit we admired on screen. It’s a powerful reminder that resilience, authenticity, and a little bit of rebellion can go a long way.
If you're drawn to bold women like Emily Calandrelli (aka The Space Gal)—who blend science, storytelling, and heart—then you’ll find Kari Byron equally compelling.
Highly recommended. This isn't just a memoir—it's a manifesto for anyone who's ever been underestimated.
Crash Test Girl by Kari Byron is a raw, riveting, and inspirational listen that had me hooked from the very first chapter. Picked completely at random via BolindaAudio, this 7-hour audiobook (read by Kari herself) was an unexpected gem that left a lasting impact.
Best known as one of the fearless co-hosts of MythBusters, Kari Byron opens the door to her life with honesty, humour, and vulnerability. If you're a fan of the show or admire women breaking boundaries in STEM and entertainment, this is an absolute must.
The audiobook delves into some surprisingly dark and personal moments—including a chilling account of a high-ranking producer whose narcissistic behaviour will absolutely shock you. Kari doesn't hold back in discussing the emotional toll of navigating a male-dominated industry and how she had to "muscle in" just to be seen and heard. Her journey is both heartbreaking and empowering.
Narrated in her own voice, Kari brings her story to life with the same intelligence, curiosity, and grit we admired on screen. It’s a powerful reminder that resilience, authenticity, and a little bit of rebellion can go a long way.
If you're drawn to bold women like Emily Calandrelli (aka The Space Gal)—who blend science, storytelling, and heart—then you’ll find Kari Byron equally compelling.
Highly recommended. This isn't just a memoir—it's a manifesto for anyone who's ever been underestimated.
January 9, 2020
Lessons from Crash Test Girl:
1. Publishing houses publishing autobiographies really need, in addition to the usual editor, someone who can take the author aside and go "This anecdote/narrative you've constructed makes you look like a sociopath, are you sure you want to include it?".
2. Overthinking isn't the same thing as introspection and neurosis isn't the same thing as self-awareness.
3. There are a lot of therapists who think their job is to hand shitty people rationalisations to let them live with themselves as-is instead of helping them grow into non-shitty people.
4. If being a Starving Artist is such a central component of your self-image, you don't really have to tell people the story about how your dad once bought a Rolls-Royce Phantom on a whim, particularly as an example of how your family was struggling financially when you were growing up (because her mom was mad about it). Same goes for your extensive world travels, even if you do think visiting India gives you spirituality cred.
There are a lot of surprises in this book, but the main ones are all about how Kari Byron turns out to be a much more unpleasant person than I thought she was. At the same time, when reviewing a celebrity autobiography it's probably unreasonable to hold being cruel and self-centred against the author too much, so let's focus on the expected instead: the fact that M5 should not exist as a business and Jamie Hyneman should be in prison.
We already knew that, of course, but in Kari's account of her first years at M5 and Mythbusters we get a closer view of the mechanics of unpaid internships and underpaid "junior" employees, and how all of it depends on a steady stream of people who are both eager to be exploited but also economically stable enough, in actual fact if not necessarily in belief, that the exploitation remains possible—presumably Kari's view of her unpaid internship would be different if her sleeping in her car had ever amounted to more than LARPing, but she was still insecure enough about her "career" that she agreed to things that are still clearly making her uncomfortable fifteen years later (her first appearance on the show: the butt scan) and things no sane person has any business expecting from an employee, because she convinced herself the person not even paying her to do it would surely fall in love with her positive attitude. It paid off for Kari, obviously—her career is over now (she's still in denial about it at the time of writing), but one of her listed regrets is "not buying a bigger house in San Francisco before the tech bubble"—but that's also the point: the unpaid internship acts as a class barrier, and a genuinely working class person would not have been able to take it in the first place.
The upshot is that all of her career advice is actively harmful for almost everyone, and will only lead to exploitation above and beyond the usual. It may not surprise you that she also dresses it up in the usual shallow white girl-boss feminism you see in entertainment. (How did "leaning in" work for those other female unpaid interns at M5 Industries, Christine and Jess? Let go and working in different industries now, you say? Weird.)
There's a lot of other crap here that really didn't need to be committed to print, but I don't think it's necessary to go into it; in a better world, this whole review would just have been about the little sidebar on pheromones on p. 45 (which claims that "scientific research has proven" that sex pheromones (which humans don't produce) are the reason women's periods sync up (which doesn't happen), but allows that evidence for them causing sexual attraction is inconclusive) and the fact that she credits the song Sixteen Tons to Johnny Cash, and I wouldn't even have had to read about her anxiety about her then-unborn daughter "suffering from" autism, much less the rest of it.
The so-called Build Team in general and Kari Byron specifically always kind of felt as outsiders in M5 and Mythbusters, so I continued to have a fondness for them even when it became hard to pretend Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman were decent people. For Byron specifically, Crash Test Girl has certainly managed to dispel that.
1. Publishing houses publishing autobiographies really need, in addition to the usual editor, someone who can take the author aside and go "This anecdote/narrative you've constructed makes you look like a sociopath, are you sure you want to include it?".
2. Overthinking isn't the same thing as introspection and neurosis isn't the same thing as self-awareness.
3. There are a lot of therapists who think their job is to hand shitty people rationalisations to let them live with themselves as-is instead of helping them grow into non-shitty people.
4. If being a Starving Artist is such a central component of your self-image, you don't really have to tell people the story about how your dad once bought a Rolls-Royce Phantom on a whim, particularly as an example of how your family was struggling financially when you were growing up (because her mom was mad about it). Same goes for your extensive world travels, even if you do think visiting India gives you spirituality cred.
There are a lot of surprises in this book, but the main ones are all about how Kari Byron turns out to be a much more unpleasant person than I thought she was. At the same time, when reviewing a celebrity autobiography it's probably unreasonable to hold being cruel and self-centred against the author too much, so let's focus on the expected instead: the fact that M5 should not exist as a business and Jamie Hyneman should be in prison.
We already knew that, of course, but in Kari's account of her first years at M5 and Mythbusters we get a closer view of the mechanics of unpaid internships and underpaid "junior" employees, and how all of it depends on a steady stream of people who are both eager to be exploited but also economically stable enough, in actual fact if not necessarily in belief, that the exploitation remains possible—presumably Kari's view of her unpaid internship would be different if her sleeping in her car had ever amounted to more than LARPing, but she was still insecure enough about her "career" that she agreed to things that are still clearly making her uncomfortable fifteen years later (her first appearance on the show: the butt scan) and things no sane person has any business expecting from an employee, because she convinced herself the person not even paying her to do it would surely fall in love with her positive attitude. It paid off for Kari, obviously—her career is over now (she's still in denial about it at the time of writing), but one of her listed regrets is "not buying a bigger house in San Francisco before the tech bubble"—but that's also the point: the unpaid internship acts as a class barrier, and a genuinely working class person would not have been able to take it in the first place.
The upshot is that all of her career advice is actively harmful for almost everyone, and will only lead to exploitation above and beyond the usual. It may not surprise you that she also dresses it up in the usual shallow white girl-boss feminism you see in entertainment. (How did "leaning in" work for those other female unpaid interns at M5 Industries, Christine and Jess? Let go and working in different industries now, you say? Weird.)
There's a lot of other crap here that really didn't need to be committed to print, but I don't think it's necessary to go into it; in a better world, this whole review would just have been about the little sidebar on pheromones on p. 45 (which claims that "scientific research has proven" that sex pheromones (which humans don't produce) are the reason women's periods sync up (which doesn't happen), but allows that evidence for them causing sexual attraction is inconclusive) and the fact that she credits the song Sixteen Tons to Johnny Cash, and I wouldn't even have had to read about her anxiety about her then-unborn daughter "suffering from" autism, much less the rest of it.
The so-called Build Team in general and Kari Byron specifically always kind of felt as outsiders in M5 and Mythbusters, so I continued to have a fondness for them even when it became hard to pretend Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman were decent people. For Byron specifically, Crash Test Girl has certainly managed to dispel that.
February 28, 2020
I totally forgot to come back after such a long time to provide a review. Here is my review, as of February 28, 2020....
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from the book. However, anytime that the author reads their own book, I find to enjoy it that much more. I was not disappointed by Kari’s story. Her memoir talked a bit about her career before she joined Mythbusters. Each section of the book is written a bit like a science experiment format—Question, Hypothesis, Experiment, Analysis and conclusion. The book isn’t just about her time working on Mythbusters. Kari does talk about her love life with her first boyfriend as well as how she finally married her husband, Paul. We learn all about her times of financial hardship, but she does talk about how important friendship, alcohol, depression and more helped shape her into who she became. Kari is one brave and tough woman to be sure. It was also refreshing to read about a woman in the field of science.
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from the book. However, anytime that the author reads their own book, I find to enjoy it that much more. I was not disappointed by Kari’s story. Her memoir talked a bit about her career before she joined Mythbusters. Each section of the book is written a bit like a science experiment format—Question, Hypothesis, Experiment, Analysis and conclusion. The book isn’t just about her time working on Mythbusters. Kari does talk about her love life with her first boyfriend as well as how she finally married her husband, Paul. We learn all about her times of financial hardship, but she does talk about how important friendship, alcohol, depression and more helped shape her into who she became. Kari is one brave and tough woman to be sure. It was also refreshing to read about a woman in the field of science.
January 18, 2022
I watched the Mythbusters pilot when it aired live, and proceeded to watch every show live until DVR came along. As a raging feminist in a STEM field, I was so thrilled when a woman host was added to the show. I quickly grew to love Kari Byron & have watched almost everything she’s done since.
I don’t usually read nonfiction or biographies & hadn’t really planned to read this, even though I have a girl crush on her. But, after I signed a contract with her management for her to be a keynote speaker at a conference I plan at work, I decided to read it.
I’m glad I did. I really enjoyed her behind-the-scenes stories, and I think her advice for the younger generations is sound. And, now I’m looking forward to meeting her even more!
I don’t usually read nonfiction or biographies & hadn’t really planned to read this, even though I have a girl crush on her. But, after I signed a contract with her management for her to be a keynote speaker at a conference I plan at work, I decided to read it.
I’m glad I did. I really enjoyed her behind-the-scenes stories, and I think her advice for the younger generations is sound. And, now I’m looking forward to meeting her even more!
July 6, 2019
I learned so much about Kari and her crazy life--it's incredible that you think you know a person from TV and then find out so much more about their life than you thought you knew. Not only does she not have any science background or degree at all (which gives me hope about myself!), but her childhood and young adult life wasn't easy. She gives great advice to females (and males should read this book and truly understand her frustration with how females are perceived in science), and I can and can't believe how much sexism she faced in her job.
An interesting book not only about her, but about what it's like to be a girl looking for a future she enjoys.
An interesting book not only about her, but about what it's like to be a girl looking for a future she enjoys.
December 7, 2020
What an experience to read a book full of Kari’s life and thoughts! She overshares the perfect amount for us readers to consume some vivid lessons in a non-linear fashion. This is more than a memoir. It lets us know kind of what it feels like to be Kari.
And I am exhausted. She has the caliber of energy that most humans do not transport into adulthood. She’s expressive and engaging and always looking for her next step forward. Yay Kari!
I sort of feel all boring and ugly and totally without accomplishments now, because I wasn’t born with that drive to place myself in a booming city and scrabble my way up the society of achievers. Oh well! It is fun to read about!
And I am exhausted. She has the caliber of energy that most humans do not transport into adulthood. She’s expressive and engaging and always looking for her next step forward. Yay Kari!
I sort of feel all boring and ugly and totally without accomplishments now, because I wasn’t born with that drive to place myself in a booming city and scrabble my way up the society of achievers. Oh well! It is fun to read about!
June 14, 2018
Sweet, endearing, and wonderful. As a mother and a woman in science and education, I have an incredible amount of respect and feels for Kari.
November 23, 2020
Enjoyable read.
July 31, 2021
4.5. This is definitely, randomly, one of those books that come to you when you need it. It's amazing!
July 5, 2020
Part memoire, part scientific method - Kari Byron give her life story and various ways to "crash test" problems encountered. Audio book read by the author.
The gist of the advice is "go get it", and the author exemplifies that approach through her life story. Along the way, plenty of Mythbuster anecdotes and humorous asides. She also shines light on television's unequal pay for women.
Overall, a nice light summer read.
The gist of the advice is "go get it", and the author exemplifies that approach through her life story. Along the way, plenty of Mythbuster anecdotes and humorous asides. She also shines light on television's unequal pay for women.
Overall, a nice light summer read.
February 27, 2020
This book felt like a series of Instagram posts by an aunt who tries to be hip and cool for her nieces.
Kari tells her life story, but it never goes very deep. It's mostly about her successes and with those she tries to inspire (and get likes). She seems painfully unaware of her own survivors bias and when she tells about her struggles in life, she always makes it seem that it wasn't so bad or backs a weird joke about it.
I listened to this book after listening to Adam Savage's auto-biography and that made it double clear that Kari is talented, but still is an apprentice ...
Kari tells her life story, but it never goes very deep. It's mostly about her successes and with those she tries to inspire (and get likes). She seems painfully unaware of her own survivors bias and when she tells about her struggles in life, she always makes it seem that it wasn't so bad or backs a weird joke about it.
I listened to this book after listening to Adam Savage's auto-biography and that made it double clear that Kari is talented, but still is an apprentice ...
August 9, 2024
3 1/2
Interesting story, entertainingly read by the author. Byron shares some wild experiences and the lessons she has learned along the way
Interesting story, entertainingly read by the author. Byron shares some wild experiences and the lessons she has learned along the way
August 10, 2018
Generally speaking, I tend to love books like Kari Byron's "Crash Test Girl." Specifically about this book, I found myself not wanting it to end. But end it had to, and this is a fast read (even if my time demanded that I read it in sips). Fortunately, it packs quite a punch.
My exposure to Ms. Bryon began at the same place as I imagine that it did for most of you: Discovery Channel's "Mythbusters." It was hard watching that show without the feeling that I was hanging out with the build team while also learning from them; their personal chemistry was as undeniable as it was engaging. Later in life I had a daughter, and it occurred to me that as she watched old reruns of "Mythbusters" with me, she was far more fixated on anything involving Kari than she was on anything else. I hadn't thought much about it before, but I realized what a powerful role model Ms. Byron was to her. When I heard about this book's release, I instantly wanted it.
Framed around Kari's application of the scientific method for solving life's challenges, this novel serves not so much as an autobiography as it does a peek into Ms. Byron's mind and how she analyses the goings-on around her. There's a great deal of insight as to her process of self-discovery. This book is a peek behind the curtain of a person who for so many of us was just another face on that flickering box. Additionally, it's a display that Ms. Byron knows that her celebrity status gives her a degree of influence within her fan base, and true to her image, she wishes to do something positive with it. She succeeds.
Judging from some of the comments I've read from others, some of you may be concerned about feminist messages being force-fed to you. This book is for you especially. The expectations of women in the workforce are very different, and it would be insincere for Ms. Byron to write something like this without mentioning it. Ms. Byron handles these topics with tact as well as humor, focusing on her own approach and attitudes toward these things. While pulling back the blanket and revealing it for what it is, her goal is to enlighten rather than inflict guilt: these are the things she's seen, this is how they made her feel, and this is how she dealt with them. If her approach causes you discomfort, it's your responsibility to figure out why.
For the rest of us, I can only say that I recommend "Crash Test Girl" very highly. You've seen her. You know who she is and what she does. After reading this work, you'll feel as if you've met her. You'll be happy to have made her acquaintance.
My exposure to Ms. Bryon began at the same place as I imagine that it did for most of you: Discovery Channel's "Mythbusters." It was hard watching that show without the feeling that I was hanging out with the build team while also learning from them; their personal chemistry was as undeniable as it was engaging. Later in life I had a daughter, and it occurred to me that as she watched old reruns of "Mythbusters" with me, she was far more fixated on anything involving Kari than she was on anything else. I hadn't thought much about it before, but I realized what a powerful role model Ms. Byron was to her. When I heard about this book's release, I instantly wanted it.
Framed around Kari's application of the scientific method for solving life's challenges, this novel serves not so much as an autobiography as it does a peek into Ms. Byron's mind and how she analyses the goings-on around her. There's a great deal of insight as to her process of self-discovery. This book is a peek behind the curtain of a person who for so many of us was just another face on that flickering box. Additionally, it's a display that Ms. Byron knows that her celebrity status gives her a degree of influence within her fan base, and true to her image, she wishes to do something positive with it. She succeeds.
Judging from some of the comments I've read from others, some of you may be concerned about feminist messages being force-fed to you. This book is for you especially. The expectations of women in the workforce are very different, and it would be insincere for Ms. Byron to write something like this without mentioning it. Ms. Byron handles these topics with tact as well as humor, focusing on her own approach and attitudes toward these things. While pulling back the blanket and revealing it for what it is, her goal is to enlighten rather than inflict guilt: these are the things she's seen, this is how they made her feel, and this is how she dealt with them. If her approach causes you discomfort, it's your responsibility to figure out why.
For the rest of us, I can only say that I recommend "Crash Test Girl" very highly. You've seen her. You know who she is and what she does. After reading this work, you'll feel as if you've met her. You'll be happy to have made her acquaintance.
August 28, 2020
Picked this up after reading Adam Savage's "Every Tool's A Hammer" and the stark contrast in personality of Adam to Kari is just as it was on the Mythbuster's show. This is super refreshing to see, as it reassures me how real Mythbuster's was for a TV show- nothing fake about it, all explosions and unplanned mishaps were bona fide. Definitely great to see in contrast to so much fake/scripted series nowadays.
Also refreshing was reading Kari's honest take on her eclectic and varied backstory that really put her personality IRL in perspective. As a fellow introverted, anxiety-ridden punk-rocker girl who never truly fit in with the other girls in school, I found myself relating to Kari on a level I never expected and surprisingly, gave me hope and some reassurance to continue being my nerdy, dorky self. Because if she "faked it til she made it" and still succeeded, why can't I? Kudos to her as well for acknowledging her status as a female role model in the STEAM community and continuing to fight for equality in treatment and pay to back it up. Kari is a badass who knows how to use her ass(ets) to get somewhere where she wants to be, no shame or judgement needed, all while maintaining a good head on her shoulders, wicked critical thinking and creative skills, plus a good set of morals to boot, and I love that. Her drive to be creatively happy is everything I aspire to be in one package (minus the alcoholism lol).
On a final note: I picked this book up and read it just a few weeks after hearing about Grant Imahara's death, which had hit me unexpectedly hard after following all of the MB crew's careers after the show for so long. Reading the stories and anecdotes Kari had about him and Tory while on the MB team took on a whole new meaning because of this- my heart breaks knowing how close they all were as friends and the grief the Mythbusters crew (and maker community as a whole) must be going through. RIP Grant. You were taken MUCH too young <3
Also refreshing was reading Kari's honest take on her eclectic and varied backstory that really put her personality IRL in perspective. As a fellow introverted, anxiety-ridden punk-rocker girl who never truly fit in with the other girls in school, I found myself relating to Kari on a level I never expected and surprisingly, gave me hope and some reassurance to continue being my nerdy, dorky self. Because if she "faked it til she made it" and still succeeded, why can't I? Kudos to her as well for acknowledging her status as a female role model in the STEAM community and continuing to fight for equality in treatment and pay to back it up. Kari is a badass who knows how to use her ass(ets) to get somewhere where she wants to be, no shame or judgement needed, all while maintaining a good head on her shoulders, wicked critical thinking and creative skills, plus a good set of morals to boot, and I love that. Her drive to be creatively happy is everything I aspire to be in one package (minus the alcoholism lol).
On a final note: I picked this book up and read it just a few weeks after hearing about Grant Imahara's death, which had hit me unexpectedly hard after following all of the MB crew's careers after the show for so long. Reading the stories and anecdotes Kari had about him and Tory while on the MB team took on a whole new meaning because of this- my heart breaks knowing how close they all were as friends and the grief the Mythbusters crew (and maker community as a whole) must be going through. RIP Grant. You were taken MUCH too young <3
July 1, 2018
~Disclaimer I received this book for free and quotes/page numbers are from the advanced reading copy~
In the books own words:
What can you expect to read in this book:
From there the memoir starts. Kari touches on her career prior to joining Mythbusters and the steps that lead to her becoming part of the crew. From there she leaps into her love life: her first boyfriend, the failed dating and finally Paul her husband. Moving on from there we look at money via her childhood of financial hardship, after college days and finally to actually making good money in reality TV. From there she talks about the role of friendship, style, alcohol, sexuality, depression, creativity, setbacks and bravery have had on her life. These chapters have many positive messages within them and at some times veer into self-help territory.
Each section is told in a format Question, Hypothesis, Experiment, Analysis and finally Conclusion (with occasional Crash Test segments thrown in). The end of each chapter is completed with sketches.
If you love Mythbusters or are a fan of Kari Byron this is a great purchase. For everyone else...read it if it sounds interesting and skip it if it doesn’t.
In the books own words:
“If you’re a professional scientist reading this, great! If you’re a curious person who loves the idea of dissecting what went wrong and deciding how you might do things better next time, welcome! The brilliance of the scientific method is that it is for everyone. Seriously, everyone. The scientific method can become a guiding light for you, as it is for me, and I’m excited to show you how I did it.” (p. 4)
What can you expect to read in this book:
From there the memoir starts. Kari touches on her career prior to joining Mythbusters and the steps that lead to her becoming part of the crew. From there she leaps into her love life: her first boyfriend, the failed dating and finally Paul her husband. Moving on from there we look at money via her childhood of financial hardship, after college days and finally to actually making good money in reality TV. From there she talks about the role of friendship, style, alcohol, sexuality, depression, creativity, setbacks and bravery have had on her life. These chapters have many positive messages within them and at some times veer into self-help territory.
Each section is told in a format Question, Hypothesis, Experiment, Analysis and finally Conclusion (with occasional Crash Test segments thrown in). The end of each chapter is completed with sketches.
If you love Mythbusters or are a fan of Kari Byron this is a great purchase. For everyone else...read it if it sounds interesting and skip it if it doesn’t.
July 18, 2018
This should be on the Girls Who Code reading list. If there isn't such a reading list, this should be among the first chosen.
I took a break from one type of oppression (racism) to read about another type of oppression (sexism). Kari is a powerful woman, no scratch that, she's a powerful person. The crap she had to deal with being a women on not just a TV show but a scientific TV show was disheartening. While the book doesn't focus on just that, it's my biggest takeaway. Mythbusters is one of my all-time favorite shows and it was fascinating to see what made one of the co-hosts tick.
Hers has not been a life rife with opportunities. She made her fair share of mistakes but she didn't shy away from owning them. This book is just another opportunity for her. This time, in addition to sharing some behind the scenes stuff on Mythbusters, she reveals her experiences with many things, including some things that are (mistakenly) seen as character flaws, particularly depression and failure. She is strikingly honest about her life and is so because she hopes sharing her struggles will help others. That's freaking fantastic.
Great read.
I took a break from one type of oppression (racism) to read about another type of oppression (sexism). Kari is a powerful woman, no scratch that, she's a powerful person. The crap she had to deal with being a women on not just a TV show but a scientific TV show was disheartening. While the book doesn't focus on just that, it's my biggest takeaway. Mythbusters is one of my all-time favorite shows and it was fascinating to see what made one of the co-hosts tick.
Hers has not been a life rife with opportunities. She made her fair share of mistakes but she didn't shy away from owning them. This book is just another opportunity for her. This time, in addition to sharing some behind the scenes stuff on Mythbusters, she reveals her experiences with many things, including some things that are (mistakenly) seen as character flaws, particularly depression and failure. She is strikingly honest about her life and is so because she hopes sharing her struggles will help others. That's freaking fantastic.
Great read.
May 13, 2018
This book is definitely written with a female audience in mind, however I do think men would enjoy reading it, especially fans of Kari’s. However I do think you would have to be a fan of Kari’s or at least of Mythbusters, to get something from this book. Personally I am a huge fan of Kari and loved this book.
At first I was a little apprehensive about the premise of the book, wondering if the half self-help, half memoir style of the book was a gimmick to be a little different and I was wondering how it would quite work. My fears were relieved almost straight away. The structure of the book quite simply works as a great way to tell Kari’s story. The book is very well-written and is very engaging and gives great advice while never feeling sententious. One of the reasons the book is so amazing is that Kari is very honest throughout. After reading this book it you feel like you really know about Kari and who she is (as well as some behind the scenes Mythbusters gossip!). Definitely a book I will return to in the future.
At first I was a little apprehensive about the premise of the book, wondering if the half self-help, half memoir style of the book was a gimmick to be a little different and I was wondering how it would quite work. My fears were relieved almost straight away. The structure of the book quite simply works as a great way to tell Kari’s story. The book is very well-written and is very engaging and gives great advice while never feeling sententious. One of the reasons the book is so amazing is that Kari is very honest throughout. After reading this book it you feel like you really know about Kari and who she is (as well as some behind the scenes Mythbusters gossip!). Definitely a book I will return to in the future.
May 16, 2018
In this book Kari proposes a framework for applying scientific-method concepts to various aspects of life, providing examples from her own experiences to show how she made her way by experimenting and learning from the results. While some of the advice was not particularly novel to a reader nearly two decades into her career, Kari is an insightful and delightful author, and I especially appreciated the chapters on bravery, depression, and setbacks. The format of the book was very engaging and made for a very fun and quick read. If you're expecting a MythBusters tell-all, this book may disappoint you; but while there's not much in the way of gossip, there are tales from the set in nearly every chapter, with lots of love expressed for her fellow Build Team members as well as Jamie Hyneman.
I wish I'd had a mentor like Kari--or at least a book like this to read--twenty years ago! Definitely recommended for young women as they near or enter adulthood, but there's something in this book for anyone at any age.
I wish I'd had a mentor like Kari--or at least a book like this to read--twenty years ago! Definitely recommended for young women as they near or enter adulthood, but there's something in this book for anyone at any age.
January 4, 2019
“This is a journey into the incredible life of Kari Byron, one part biography, one part live-your-life-instruction manual, presented with the unique style that’s all Kari, as she smashes the stereotype of a scientist as a white male in a lab coat.”
Most noted as a star on the hit show Mythbusters, Kari Byron makes no secret about her love of creating things as much as she loves blowing things up. In this book, she talks about not only how she landed the job—as an artist with no scientific background at all, but growing up as a socially awkward, middle class California girl who suffered from bouts of sometimes severe depression. I do love how she is using her status to help others suffering with depression and especially trying to help women and young girls in the STEM (or as she would love to see, STEAM, the A being for art) field. She’s right, though, creativity does have its place in the STEM field.
Most noted as a star on the hit show Mythbusters, Kari Byron makes no secret about her love of creating things as much as she loves blowing things up. In this book, she talks about not only how she landed the job—as an artist with no scientific background at all, but growing up as a socially awkward, middle class California girl who suffered from bouts of sometimes severe depression. I do love how she is using her status to help others suffering with depression and especially trying to help women and young girls in the STEM (or as she would love to see, STEAM, the A being for art) field. She’s right, though, creativity does have its place in the STEM field.
July 12, 2019
I thought this book would be a behind the scenes of Mythbusters. While there is a lot of that, there's also a lot about Byron's life before (and some after) the show.
I love how she tackles difficult subjects with honesty and humor. Since she is also the reader, the words are more than just thoughts on a page - you can hear Byron's real emotions coming through.
I had one issue with this book, and it is the reason it lost a star. (In reality, it should only be 1/2 star, but I can't do that.) Her chapter on her battle with depression was (like the rest of the book), blunt and honest. However, Byron states she did not like the way medications made her feel, so she stopped taking them and bulled through. If that worked for her, great for her! However, she gives the impression that bulling through is an option for everyone, which is not the case. I fear that by taking that approach, she will inadvertently push someone away from medication and towards gutting it out.
I love how she tackles difficult subjects with honesty and humor. Since she is also the reader, the words are more than just thoughts on a page - you can hear Byron's real emotions coming through.
I had one issue with this book, and it is the reason it lost a star. (In reality, it should only be 1/2 star, but I can't do that.) Her chapter on her battle with depression was (like the rest of the book), blunt and honest. However, Byron states she did not like the way medications made her feel, so she stopped taking them and bulled through. If that worked for her, great for her! However, she gives the impression that bulling through is an option for everyone, which is not the case. I fear that by taking that approach, she will inadvertently push someone away from medication and towards gutting it out.
September 14, 2020
I loved watching Mythbusters with my kids and I loved reading this book. Kari was such an uplifting part of the show. I admire her even more now that I've learned her background and heard about her struggles with depression. Good for her standing up for herself in salary negotiations and learning how to sell her ideas. (As an aside - wouldn't you have thought that Mythbusters would have been leading the way in the equal pay for equal work fight? Sadly, another myth busted...) Good messages here for young people wondering how to proceed with their lives. I found Kari's story a good mix of honesty, lessons learned the hard way, and just enough "Oh, I remember that episode!" to keep the pages turning. Good luck to her!
May 20, 2025
Lighthearted and casual. An in-depth look at Kari Byron's journey from starving rebellious artist to being one of the first female TV science rock stars. There are a large variety of funny and honest anecdotes about working on Mythbusters. It was a great insight into the behind-the-scenes of the show. She spent plenty of time writing about other opportunities in her life and other things she has learned along the way.
I am honestly a huge fan of Mythbusters and Kari Byron was one of my idols growing up. I have to admit I enjoyed this book a little more than I would have since I was already a fan going into it.
The book is still fun and great for anyone looking for casual self-help on their journey to find themselves.
I am honestly a huge fan of Mythbusters and Kari Byron was one of my idols growing up. I have to admit I enjoyed this book a little more than I would have since I was already a fan going into it.
The book is still fun and great for anyone looking for casual self-help on their journey to find themselves.
August 12, 2018
I adored Mythbusters from its inception. Watched and rewatched, bought merchandise, watched again. So when I heard, as the show broke up, that behind the scenes had been ugly, I was saddened. And greatly curious to see what Kari Byron had to say.
This boom isn't really about Mythbusters, but more about Kari's approach to life. Lessons learned on love, depression, and creativity (to give three examples) each make up a chapter, with text box asides and drawings scattered throughout. Mythbusters does play a large part in the book, just as it did in Kari's life.
Fans of the show will find something in here, but fans of finding your own way, of strength and adaptability, will find more.
This boom isn't really about Mythbusters, but more about Kari's approach to life. Lessons learned on love, depression, and creativity (to give three examples) each make up a chapter, with text box asides and drawings scattered throughout. Mythbusters does play a large part in the book, just as it did in Kari's life.
Fans of the show will find something in here, but fans of finding your own way, of strength and adaptability, will find more.
December 15, 2020
I rather enjoyed this autobiography. Not only did I learn a lot of things about Kari (the girl from Mythbusters DIDN'T have a science background?!!!), but it was presented in a unique and interesting way.
I liked the mix of personal history, perspectives & ideas, and behind the scenes details from her shows. I found parts rather inspiring and make me question details in my own life.
While this may not be an earth shattering or revolutionary book featuring a women, it was still a fun read about a relatable person.
I liked the mix of personal history, perspectives & ideas, and behind the scenes details from her shows. I found parts rather inspiring and make me question details in my own life.
While this may not be an earth shattering or revolutionary book featuring a women, it was still a fun read about a relatable person.
February 24, 2024
How can you not love Kari Byron?
My husband and I are currently rewatching all the old MythBusters episodes, so when I saw this book, I knew we needed to listen to it!
There is a significant emphasis put on the inequality for women in television and gender inequality in general. I found her perspective on this really interesting.
Also, her discussion of mental health was refreshing.
You should absolutely read (or listen to) this book! You will learn something, whether about the world, her or yourself.
10/10. Just do it.
My husband and I are currently rewatching all the old MythBusters episodes, so when I saw this book, I knew we needed to listen to it!
There is a significant emphasis put on the inequality for women in television and gender inequality in general. I found her perspective on this really interesting.
Also, her discussion of mental health was refreshing.
You should absolutely read (or listen to) this book! You will learn something, whether about the world, her or yourself.
10/10. Just do it.
April 19, 2021
This is one of those books I started, loved but life got in the way and I put it on hold. When I picked it back up last month it was the perfect timing. I can relate to so many things the author talks about because of all the life changes in the last couple years. So much great advice and the laughter that came from her experiences because mine were similar was freeing. So glad I picked it back up!!
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