## Science News Goes Social: Exploring Top Reads in the Realm of Science and BeyondIn an era where the latest scientific discoveries and thought-provoking ideas are constantly emerging, Scientific American has become a trusted source for engaging content. This year, the team at the magazine has uncovered fascinating and thought-provoking stories that have sparked curiosity and dialogue among readers. From cutting-edge research to personal experiences, this article will delve into a selection of the magazine's recent highlights, offering a glimpse into the diverse world of science writing.### Top Reads in Nonfiction**On Call: A Doctor's Journey in Public Service** by Anthony Fauci (Viking, 2024)Featuring insights from renowned infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci, this memoir takes readers on a journey through the challenges and lessons learned during his decades of service at the National Institutes of Health. It highlights his pivotal role in responding to pandemics and contagious diseases, offering a unique perspective on public health and the intersection of science and policy.**Vanishing Treasures: A Bestiary of Extraordinary Endangered Creatures** by Katherine Rundell (Doubleday, 2024)Author Katherine Rundell presents a compelling exploration of the urgent need to protect endangered species. Through beautifully written essays and stunning illustrations, the book sheds light on the wonders and diversity of our natural world while raising awareness about the threats faced by many animals and plants.**The Secret Life of the Universe: An Astrobiologist's Search for the Origins and Frontiers of Life** by Nathalie A. Cabrol (Simon and Schuster, 2024)Astrobiologist Nathalie A. Cabrol takes readers on a thrilling scientific adventure to the frontiers of life on Earth and beyond. The book explores the latest findings in astrobiology, delving into the potential for life on other planets and highlighting the importance of understanding our cosmic origins.**What I Ate in One Year (and Related Thoughts)** by Stanley Tucci (Gallery Books, 2024)Celebrated actor and renowned food enthusiast Stanley Tucci shares a captivating culinary memoir that traces his eating habits over the course of a year. With a focus on the intertwined realms of food, family, and memory, each chapter explores Tucci's dining experiences and the personal reflections inspired by them.**The Cleopatras: The Forgotten Queens of Egypt** by Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones (Basic Books, 2024)This historical account delves into the lives of the remarkable Cleopatras, a powerful dynasty of women who ruled over Egypt for centuries. Lloyd Llewellyn-Jones provides a fresh perspective on their story, highlighting their intelligence, influence, and the complex web of relationships they navigated.### Top Reads in Fiction**There's Always This Year: On Basketball and Ascension** by Hanif Abdurraqib (Random House, 2024)Poet and essayist Hanif Abdurraqib explores the profound impact of basketball on his life in a highly personal and lyrical memoir. Through vivid storytelling and incisive observations, Abdurraqib delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the transformative power of sports.**A Small Miracle** by Tessa Venell (Self-published, 2024)In this award-winning debut novel, Tessa Venell shares the poignant story of her recovery from a traumatic brain injury. It provides an inspiring and deeply moving account of the strength and resilience of the human spirit, showcasing the power of medicine and the vital support systems that can aid in healing.### Selected ReviewsIn addition to offering a selection of top reads, Scientific American also features insightful reviews that provide diverse perspectives on recently published works. Here are excerpts from a few reviews:**A Quantum Love Story: A Novel** by Mike Chen (MIRA, 2024)"Chen builds a skiff made of paper to sail through the storm, a paradox that explores the boundaries of science and love." - Meg Elison**How to Win Friends and Influence Fungi: Collected Quirks of Science, Tech, Engineering, and Math from Nerd Nite** edited by Chris Balakrishnan and Matt Wasowski (St. Martin's Press, 2024)"In How to Win Friends and Influence Fungi, I have found my new holy bible... a dizzying array of subjects that span a multiverse of scientific and pop-culture knowledge." - Chuck Wendig**Annie Bot: A Novel** by Sierra Greer (Mariner Books, 2024)"Annie Bot is a coming-of-age thriller, a sexbot bildungsroman page-turner that explores the complexities of consciousness, free will, and the nature of humanity." - Alan Scherstuhl### Bountiful Backlist**My Brilliant Friend** by Elena Ferrante (Europa Editions, 2012)"Terrifying at times but never without heart, My Brilliant Friend is a tale of two young women growing up in post-World War II Italy that has captivated millions of readers worldwide."**A Discovery of Witches** by Deborah Harkness (Penguin Books, 2011)"A fun and captivating read that combines fantasy, history, and a dash of romance. A Discovery of Witches has all the elements of a captivating page-turner."**Yellowface** by R. F. Kuang (William Morrow, 2023)"A thought-provoking and timely novel that explores the complexities of race, identity, and representation in the arts. Kuang's writing is sharp, witty, and utterly compelling."### Support Science JournalismScientific American's mission to engage the public with the latest scientific discoveries and insights is made possible with the support of its readers. By subscribing to the magazine, you can contribute to this vital work and ensure that the voice of science continues to be heard. Join the Scientific American community today and explore the fascinating world of science writing through award-winning journalism, groundbreaking research, and thought-provoking perspectives.