Pat W

For anyone unfamiliar with the mental health system, particularly in the U.S., this book is a real eye-opener. The author, whose teenage son develops psychotic symptoms, explores virtually every facet of the system, while growing increasingly frantic and frustrated by the lack of a coherent explanation of psychosis or treatment plan options. While I cheered her along, I couldn't help comparing her journey with that of people with little/no insurance who have to rely on an even more broken system of public mental health care. While this is not a book for those looking for answers, it is a good survey and a definite statement of a mother's love and devotion to a broken child.

I had long been aware of Rosalind Franklin and her contribution to the 'discovery' of DNA, but this book clarified her pivotal role as well as providing an understanding of the woman herself. Benedict made the complex science of x-ray crystallography understandable for even a non-scientist. I have recommended it to all my friends, particularly those interested in the often-neglected area of women in science.