Picture an American storyteller who turns the periodic table into a page-turner—meet Sam Kean! A New York Times bestselling author, Kean blends science, history, and wit to make complex concepts feel like thrilling adventures. From the quirky tales of elements to the dark deeds of rogue scientists, his books captivate readers worldwide, earning accolades from NPR to The Guardian.
Born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Kean’s knack for storytelling has made him a rockstar in science communication. His podcast, The Disappearing Spoon, and appearances on NPR’s Radiolab show his flair for making science fun and accessible. Ready to dive into his fascinating world?
The Making of Sam Kean
Sam Kean grew up in South Dakota, where he collected mercury from broken thermometers—a hint of his future obsession with science. He studied physics and English at the University of Minnesota, blending analytical and creative passions. After a stint teaching at an experimental night school in St. Paul and a failed move to Spain, Kean landed in Washington, D.C. There, he earned a master’s in library science, though he jokes he’ll likely never use it. His career took off as a science writer for outlets like The New York Times Magazine and Slate, setting the stage for his bestselling books.
Sam Kean’s Unforgettable Stories
Kean’s books are like treasure hunts through science’s wild history. His debut, The Disappearing Spoon (2010), transforms the periodic table into a saga of discovery, betrayal, and quirky characters, earning a Royal Society nomination. The Violinist’s Thumb (2012) dives into DNA, exploring everything from Neanderthal romance to Einstein’s genius, with a PEN/E.O. Wilson award nod. The Tale of the Dueling Neurosurgeons (2014) unravels the brain’s mysteries through bizarre true stories, like blind people seeing with their tongues. Caesar’s Last Breath (2017), named The Guardian’s science book of the year, traces the air we breathe across history, while The Icepick Surgeon (2021) exposes science’s darker side, from Cleopatra’s schemes to modern ethical dilemmas.
Kean’s style is witty and human-focused, turning dense topics into cinematic narratives. He finds the drama in science—love, rivalry, even espionage—and peppers his work with humor, making readers laugh while learning. His podcast, The Disappearing Spoon, extends this storytelling, hitting No. 1 on iTunes’ science charts.
Why Sam Kean Matters
Sam Kean has redefined science writing, making it as gripping as a novel. His books, translated into 24 languages, inspire curiosity in readers from teens to academics. By highlighting the human side of science—its triumphs and flaws—he bridges the gap between experts and everyday folks. His work fuels STEM interest and sparks debates on ethics, like vaccine hesitancy linked to historical abuses. Kean’s legacy is a world where science isn’t intimidating—it’s a story everyone can love.
- Born: Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Key Works: The Disappearing Spoon, The Violinist’s Thumb, Caesar’s Last Breath, The Icepick Surgeon
- Awards: Guardian Science Book of the Year (2017), Royal Society nominee (2010), PEN/E.O. Wilson finalist
- Fun Fact: Kean’s podcast, The Disappearing Spoon, debuted at No. 1 on iTunes!
Snag The Disappearing Spoon and dive into Sam Kean’s witty, wondrous world of science storytelling!