We've all had those same questions about the quirks and oddities of daily life.
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Why do horror films give me a thrill? Why do I find baby animals so cute? Why can't I stop humming that song?
In Why Am I Like This?, Dr Jen Martin sets out to answer those questions as best she can.
As an award-winning science communicator with a PhD from the University of Melbourne, Dr Jen is well-placed to answer these questions.
Not only has she studied the strange human quirks and habits that make us tick, but she has also dedicated her career to communicating complex scientific topics in engaging ways that everyone can understand.
The popularity of media personalities like Dr Karl, Bill Nye the Science Guy and Brian Cox demonstrates how much we want to learn from engaging scientists. With radio host experience, Dr Jen is just as entertaining as Karl, Bill or Brian.
In Why Am I Like This? (Hardie Grant Books, $27.99, January 31) Dr Martin explains the quirks and oddities of our daily lives in a comprehensive yet accessible way, this book is perfect for anyone who has ever stopped to wonder 'why?'.
Backed up by meticulous research and full of pop culture references, Why Am I Like This? demonstrates Dr Martin's ability to break down complex scientific concepts for a broad audience.
There are fascinating facts about the science of our everyday behaviours. She asks "is the human brain capable of understanding itself?... Will the human brain ever manage to uncover all of its own secrets? Perhaps not, but that will never stop it from trying."
The debut book from a well-respected professor who teaches the science communication program at The University of Melbourne, Why Am I Like This? is a fascinating dive into the human brain and some of its quirks.
About the author
Dr Jen Martin is an award-winning educator with a PhD from the University of Melbourne. She founded and teaches the University's science communication program, runs the blog espressoscience.com, has a popular weekly radio segment, Weird Science, on Australia's largest independent radio station Triple R and has been a co-host of Triple R's popular Sunday science show, Einstein-a-go-go, for more than a decade.
Therese Murray
Wordsmith. Senior journalist. Editor. I have a proven track record in helping people and communities solve their problems. My career is all about telling stories.
Wordsmith. Senior journalist. Editor. I have a proven track record in helping people and communities solve their problems. My career is all about telling stories.
