A Portrait of the Scientist as a Young Woman

A Memoir

by Lindy Elkins-Tanton

I love to read and listen to stories of scientific careers, especially these more meandering ones. Such is the case of Lindy Elkins-Tanton, who accomplished exceptional success in the world of science despite many adversities and traumatic experiences in her youth.

There are intertwined themes: a deeply personal memoir; notes from lab and fieldwork; analysis of the higher education system and misogynistic management culture in academia. I have to admit that I was a little disappointed that the part which for me was the most interesting — stories from her fieldwork in Siberia — was dominated by these other two themes. But I think this book will be priceless for any woman who is considering a career in STEM disciplines.

Trigger warning: there are mentions of child abuse and rape.

Thanks to the publisher, William Morrow, and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.

Ula Tardigrade's review of A Portrait of the Scientist as a Young Woman