The Salmon Cannon and the Levitating Frog

“A glorious celebration of silly science, The Salmon Cannon and the Levitating Frog demystifies the process of scientific discovery and reveals the role that curiosity plays in scientific innovation.” –Shelf Awareness“The Salmon Cannon and the Levitating Frog playfully and pointedly advocates for increased understanding of “silly science”–and the ways curiosity-driven discoveries have immeasurably improved our lives.” –BookPage“A delightful plunge into the curiosity-driven discoveries at the heart of science.” –Kirkus“This is pop science at its finest.” –Publishers Weekly“A joyful read with a lot of depth, Carly Ann York’s book will make you the hit of the dinner party (or online conversation) with her pithy and fun stories of how “silly science” is anything but. York shows–through examples from Archimedes’ tub to how Gila Monsters led to the discovery of Ozempic–that what some see as pointless inquiry so often leads to a great discovery or key scientific insight. From the eccentric to the inspiring, York proves that human curiosity is an imperative part of the scientific process, and that there are rarely wasted experiments.“–Starre Vartan, author of The Stronger Sex“Carly Ann York offers a countermeasure to the cynicism of our times: the pure joy of curiosity and wonder. With humor and a scientist’s keen eye, she dissects silly-sounding science to reveal its surprising benefits. Along the way, she digs up my favorite kinds of stories: the ones that make you say “wow,” “what?!,” or “ew”–and then make you think.“–Erika Engelhaupt, author of Gory Details“Bravo! Carly Anne York leaps to the defense of basic scientific research with wit, passion, and unabashed wonder. Filled with insights and eureka moments, The Salmon Cannon and the Levitating Frog is a timely, thought-provoking, and thoroughly terrific read.”–Thor Hanson, author of Close to Home“Carly York is a witty, whip-smart, lithely engaging science storyteller, truly one of our best. This book is a celebration of curiosity and a spirited defense of the quirky endeavors it inspires. With clear but never dumbed-down explanations and an infectious taste for the surreal, York makes the case for pure inquiry – showcasing the value and world-changing discoveries that come of asking why. Fascinating, entertaining, and a welcome antidote to the small minds of certain politicians.”–Mary Roach, author of Stiff and Fuzz

Carly Anne York is currently an associate professor at Lenoir-Rhyne University. She received her PhD in ecological studies from Old Dominion University. She is also the author of two nonfiction science books for children, A Day in the Life: Horses and Queens of the Jungle. She lives in North Carolina.