The Best Australian Science Writing 2022

by Ivy Shih (Editor)

What can a microbial gravesite on a moon teach us? Why are scientists risking their lives to safeguard a seed bank? How does a virus detective story show us why we need to be vigilant about the next disease outbreak? Great science writing compels us to pay attention to parts of the world often unseen, from a dusty gold mine which could help answer one of the biggest questions in astrophysics to a delightful date with the misunderstood blobfish. This acclaimed anthology—now in its twelfth year—selects the most riveting, entertaining, poignant, and fascinating science stories and essays from Australian writers, poets, and scientists. With a foreword by health broadcaster and commentator Dr. Norman Swan, this collection covers another remarkable year, not only filled with seismic moments in science, but also shining a light on important work that would otherwise be overlooked.

Genres: Nonfiction, Science

256 pages, Paperback

Published November 1, 2022

Reviews

[louis]

this was an enjoyable read. a nice anthology of recent science writing across a variety of fields. my favourite pieces were the syrian seed bank piece and the one about controlling feral cat populations. now onto the 2023 edition

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the essay about feral cats, I didn't know that the felixer only sprays cats and not other critters. Also the ediacaran essay, loved the analogy of toilet rolls and geologic time. Learnt about Turkish women immunizing predating Jenner. Found out that sour dough bread can be less irritating to gut health. Also that you cannot infer emotion from facial expression.

[Sarah De · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many fascininating insights!

[Betty · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's always a pleasure to read about the latest developments in science. great writing, well explained to a non science audience.

[Borlap · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some excellent writing on display here! Really loved the story about Tassie’s black box and the dad with the TBI. Really evocative and informative. Great read

[eli · Rating 4 out of 5]

a fascinating and thought provoking collection, i found this very enjoyable to read.