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The Science of Superheroes

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The Science of Superheroes

By: Lois Gresh, Robert Weinberg
Narrated by: Oliver Wyman
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About this listen

 The Science of Superheroes takes a lighthearted but clear-headed look at the real science that underlies some of the greatest superhero comic books of all time, including Spider-Man, Batman, Fantastic Four, and many more. Each chapter presents the story of the origin of one or more superheroes and asks intriguing questions that lead to fascinating discussions about the limits of science, the laws of nature, and the future of technology.

If gamma rays can’t turn a 128-pound weakling into the Incredible Hulk, what could? Are Spider-Man’s powers really those of a spider? Could a person ever breathe water like a fish? From telepathy to teleportation, from cloning to cosmic rays, this vastly entertaining romp through the nexus of science and fantasy separates the possible from the plausible and the barely plausible from the utterly ridiculous.

With an introduction by author Dean Koontz.Executive Producer: Dan Zitt
©2002 by Lois Gresh and Robert Weinberg
(P)2002 Random House Inc. Fantasy History History & Philosophy Philosophy Science Social Sciences Superhero Fiction
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Some interesting discussions, but inconsistent and drawn out in parts. For example the chapter on aquaman spends far too long unpacking a modern evolutionary theory that man evolved in aquatic environments. And is it really necessary to debate fish communication in such depth. Other queries don't get sufficient coverage e.g. Batman's grapple line: could he carry enough line on his person, could the grapple penetrate walls? Ultimately a bit hit and miss and rather dry. Some interesting comic history though.

A bit drawn out and dry.

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awful.... takes what should be fun interesting and completely bored me to tears. I love superheroes hense why I got the book but it does nothing but give you formulas and tell you to the enth degree how something would not be possible and so on an so forth...... more science than superhero.... I couldn't listen anymore and I gave it a fair chance

DO NOT BUY

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The information being imparted here may well be accurate, but the quality of writing and the style is absolutely dire ! There is mild swearing throughout, and the reader sounds so naive and "dumb", that I keep expecting him to use words like "wow", "cool", and "awesome" at any moment. It is the most dreadful book I have ever come across.

Appalling

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thoroughly enjoyed this a very interesting listen

the speaker is engaging and the chapters are presented well ..didn't get bored once

thoroughly enjoyed this a very interesting listen

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