Choice Review

This book discusses nanotechnology's public image and its depiction by the British press, scientists, celebrities, and policy makers. The book's focus on a current topic, nanotechnology--coupled with a comprehensive literature review about the public understanding of science--distinguish its approach and utility. The authors, from sociology, science communications, and journalism departments at British universities, adeptly summarize why scientists and journalists rarely agree on how to improve the public's understanding of science, or how to cultivate community engagement in science policy issues. The authors also note how the Internet's rapid emergence as the public's primary source of science information and learning forces a reexamination of past assumptions. The book is an excellent companion to Massimiano Bucchi and Brian Trench's Handbook of Public Communication of Science and Technology (CH, Mar'09, 46-3797). This succinct work featuring an inclusive bibliography will be valuable for collections in science and medical writing, science and health communication, and mass media and society. Summing Up: Recommended. Libraries serving upper-division undergraduates and above. R. A. Logan emeritus, University of Missouri--Columbia