Enigma: 1960
by
Dr Pat Stevenson
“The world of Science for every reader to enjoy.“
—Sally
The book’s author, Dr Pat Stevenson, tells the story of university research life in the 1960s against the background story of the discovery of the structure of DNA. An entrancing read is the most common feedback so far!
Enigma is set in 1960 in an hypothetical university department in Adelaide, where two fictional students are studying for PhDs. Loosely based on Pat Stevenson’s life experiences, she traces the development of the scientific minds of Judith, Arthur and their university friends and colleagues.
The theme of the book is lack of discrimination in academia between rich and poor; race and gender; united by science as an international endeavour. It is a true historical record of scientific method before computers, photocopiers, detergents and throwaway equipment. While the most important attribute of a scientist is honesty, achievement is dependent on luck and determination.
Readers have enjoyed the way that Dr Stevenson tells this story. Read their reviews below.
Dr Stevenson has based the book's characters on her favourite description of the scientific mind:
A Mind, Nimble & Versatile enough to catch the Resemblances of Things, which is the chief point, & at the same time Steady enough to Fix & Discern their Subtle Differences. Endowed by Nature with the Desire to Seek, Patience to Doubt, Fondness to Meditate, Slowness to Assert, Readiness to Reconsider, Carefulness to Set in Order, & neither Affecting what is New nor Admiring what is Old, & hating every kind of imposture.
— Francis Bacon in p 151 of “Selected writings on the interpretation of Nature”, NY Random House, 1955.
Learned Men prefer the Public Good to their own interest
— Francis Bacon
Sally
The world of Science for every reader to enjoy.
This book is definitive for the insight it sheds on the understanding of Science, and the role it plays in our lives. At this time in our history when the findings of Science are continually dismissed, disregarded and doubted, Dr Stevenson shows what it is the Scientists really do, and what it is that the Scientific method shows us. Our world faces many challenges, all of which can only benefit from the objectivity of this Scientific thinking.
Gloria
I loved all your detailed descriptions and feel I know Judith, Arthur and Simon really well. I hope you have a continuing episode as I want to know their destiny.
Marilyn
This is a well written book by an author who knows her subject thoroughly. It has enough scientific detail to keep science buffs happy, but not too overwhelming for others. Recommended as a good read.
Shirley
I thoroughly enjoyed your book! Can’t wait for volume number 2. I am proud to be friends with someone who contributed so much in your field and had such a distinguished career!
Michéle
Here is a work that sits right on the cusp between fiction and non-fiction, that draws us away from drama to a world where problems are solved in real time, and that still manages to engage us in that pursuit. It’s the treading of that line, the cajoling of the reader back into reality, that becomes another, different challenge – one of composition, and one that this author takes up wholeheartedly.
