Distinguished African American scientists of the 20th century /

Although the title implies complete coverage of all noted African American scientists of this century, this book is characterized more by the absence of a large number of truly distinguished African American scientists who have been recognized by the scientific community for their impact on the advancement of science. The book's value would have been greatly enhanced if more of the stories of these scientists had been included. However, it is an important resource for those in our society who do not know of or appreciate the many accomplishments of these scientists in the US. This valuable addition to the literature exposes the many obstacles in our society that African Americans have had to overcome to reach their present careers and occupations. The format of each biographical entry provides a history of the scientist's life to which many young aspiring scholars can relate, as well as providing a bit of social history of the lives of these men and women. These features are well done. The book is generally well written and is recommended to undergraduates, professionals, and the general public. L. S. Smith emeritus, Central State University (OH)

This volume contains profiles of 100 African Americans from all fields of science, medicine, and mathematics, approximately 20 percent of them women. Though a number are also covered in Notable Twentieth-Century Scientists (see below), others, such as Dartmouth physics professor H. Ralph Lewis and astronaut Ronald McNair, are not. Entries average three to five pages. Middle school and up.

One hundred famous and not-so-famous African American scientists (both living and dead) are covered in this biographical reference, intended for middle school through community college levels. Men and women accomplished in anthropology, biology, chemistry, engineering, geology, mathematics, medicine, and physics are included. Those profiled include lesser-known scientists such as Christine Darden (an engineer with NASA) as well as the better known, e.g., George Washington Carver. All serve as excellent role models and reveal "some of the real costs and benefits associated with the pursuit of a career in scientific research." The four distinguished authors have extensive backgrounds as teachers, librarians, and writers. Few similar reference tools are currently available: Blacks in Science and Medicine (Hemisphere Pub., 1990), for instance, has brief facts rather than longer profiles and thus lacks the inspirational aspects of this title. A welcome addition to most libraries; buy where needed.-Laura E. Lipton, Ctr. for Urban Horticulture, Seattle (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.