Willard Bascom’s Waves and Beaches first appeared in 1964 and quickly became a classic of coastal and wave science. Favored by readers who wanted to dig deeper into the physics of waves, it has stood for decades as a clear and engaging introduction to the subject.

But the new third edition? It wipes out. The wave science remains largely outdated, and new sections insert climate commentary that doesn’t reflect the current state of research.

If you care about coastal science, wave dynamics, or climate, this episode is for you.

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In this episode of Book Science, I'm joined by physicist, oceanographer, BBC presenter, and author Dr. Helen Czerski, a world-class communicator of science and an expert on all things ocean and bubble.

We talk about her most recent book, Blue Machine: How the Ocean Shapes Our World — a sweeping, human-centered tour through the ocean’s role as a planetary engine. We discuss how her background in physics informs her writing, her playful and cinematic style, the challenges of scientific storytelling, and why books still matter.

We also explore:

• The hidden structure behind ocean storytelling
• Why physics is for everyone
• The importance of curiosity and perspective
• Her work with the Cosmic Shambles Network
• Featuring Indigenous voices in ocean science
• The power of books as immersive tools for understanding

Show Notes & Bonus Content:
Show Notes, Full episode transcript, extended reading list and more at TrippCollins.com

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Explore Helen’s work at HelenCzerski.net
Learn more about Rare Earth on BBC Radio 4

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Stay curious, get off the scroll, and get out into the world.

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What if memory wasn’t just a skill—but a superpower embedded in our genes?

In this episode, I talk with science writer and memory expert Lynne Kelly about her remarkable new book, The Knowledge Gene. We explore the evolution of human creativity, the deep science of memory, and how ancient oral cultures used storytelling, song, and ceremony as sophisticated memory systems—long before the invention of writing.

We discuss the genetic clues behind memory and neurodivergence, the science of mnemonic techniques like memory palaces, and how understanding these systems can reshape how we think about education, knowledge, and even what it means to be human.

Plus: Stonehenge, songlines, memory championships, and a case for putting music and art back at the center of learning.

This is a wide-ranging and mind-expanding conversation. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

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