best nonfiction science novels

One of the best is 'A Brief History of Time' by Stephen Hawking. It makes complex scientific concepts like black holes and the origin of the universe accessible to the general public.

Sure. 'The Double Helix' by James Watson is a good start. It gives an inside look at the discovery of the structure of DNA, which is a fundamental concept in biology. It's written in a way that's easy to follow for those new to science reading.

One of the best is 'The Big Con' by David W. Maurer. It delves deep into the world of con artists and their elaborate schemes. Another great one is 'In Cold Blood' by Truman Capote. It's a nonfiction novel that reads like a caper as it details the crime and the investigation in a very engaging way. Also, 'The Informant' by Kurt Eichenwald is quite good. It tells the story of a corporate whistleblower which has elements of a caper with all the intrigue and deception involved.

One characteristic is that they are based on real scientific facts. For example, they might discuss actual scientific research, like in 'The Double Helix' which is about the discovery of the structure of DNA.

Look for books that have a strong sense of mystery and intrigue. For example, if the plot involves some sort of illegal or devious activity that is gradually uncovered. Also, check for reviews. If other readers mention elements like a cat - and - mouse chase between the perpetrator and the pursuer, it's likely a good caper novel. And books that are based on real - life events often make for great nonfiction caper novels as they add an extra layer of authenticity.

Another great one is 'The Selfish Gene' by Richard Dawkins. This book delves into the concept of genes as the fundamental units of evolution, explaining how natural selection works at the genetic level in a very engaging way. It has been highly influential in the field of evolutionary biology and has also made the topic more understandable for non - scientists.

The book 'The Bonfire of the Vanities' can be considered. It shows the excesses and moral decay in the world of high - finance and power in New York City. There are elements of people trying to 'heist' their way to the top, through corruption and manipulation. Also, 'Moneyball' has some heist - like qualities. It's about how the Oakland Athletics used unconventional methods to 'steal' talent from bigger and richer teams in baseball, completely changing the game in their favor.

Some top nonfiction graphic novels include 'Fun Home' by Alison Bechdel. This work is a memoir that delves into her relationship with her father, exploring themes of family, sexuality, and identity. 'The Photographer' is another excellent choice. It combines real - life photography with a graphic narrative to tell the story of a photographer's journey in war - torn Afghanistan. And 'Can't We Talk about Something More Pleasant?' by Roz Chast is a poignant look at aging and taking care of elderly parents.

One of the best is 'The Guns of August' by Barbara Tuchman. It vividly describes the events leading up to World War I. The details of the military strategies, the political situation in different countries, and the miscalculations that led to the outbreak of the war are all presented in a very engaging way.

The book 'I Survived' series can be considered among the best. These novels are based on historical events and tell the stories of kids who survived disasters such as the Titanic sinking or the San Francisco earthquake. They make history come alive for elementary students. Also, 'National Geographic Kids' books are excellent. They cover a wide range of topics from animals to nature to different cultures around the world, with amazing pictures and easy - to - understand text.