This non-fiction history weaves together historic stories about American scientists and how people across the United States reacted to a 19th century solar eclipse - for better and for worse. The topic and writing will appeal to broad audiences who are interested in American history, science, and anyone else who just wants to learn something new.

Very informative book about the eclipse of the summer of 1878 and three of the scientists (or rather, two scientists and one inventor) who observed the eclipse and wrote about it: James Craig Watson, Maria Mitchell, and Thomas Edison, and how the observations contributed to the U.S. taking its place in the world's scientific community. The book also discussed how some astronomers at that time believed there was another planet between the sun and Mercury, which they referred to as "Vulcan," and then the fate of the short-lived belief that the planet had indeed been found. Another interesting component of the book was the discussion about the place of female scientists within the scientific community, and how women contributed to knowledge about eclipses and about this particular eclipse despite it. A very timely read right now as well, since we are on the verge of another eclipse in the U.S. right now.

The title lets readers know that the book will be about a particular eclipse, but the introduction left me wanting more anecdotes about earlier solar eclipses. Nonetheless, this was a satisfying read that focused on all the luminaries who gathered to witness the eclipse of 1786. It was fascinating to learn about the scientists who were making discoveries (planets, stars, comets) across the universe and the things they were racing each other to discover first.

Where is the author of American Eclipse? This August, if he is not on a book tour, he will be heading to Wyoming to witness a total solar eclipse in the US. David Baron has a “case of total solar eclipse fever.” Who can blame him after reading his engaging account of the US solar eclipse in 1887? It was the beginning of the Gilded Age and the end of the Civil War. There were disputed Presidential elections, European elitism, a skepticism of science and innovation, superstition, fake news, warring scientists, a mission to empower women, and an inventor seeking backing, acceptance and publicity. Does any of this sound familiar?

Baron focuses on James Craig Watson, an astronomer who wants to find more heavenly bodies and gain recognition from his European brethren and American competitors. What better time to ferret out the location of possible planets than when the skies are darkened to reveal its secrets? Maria Mitchell is an astronomer whose sights are not only set on the solar eclipse but on what it would mean for a woman to make more scientific discoveries by gazing upward. Denigrated in pay and prestige, although eminently qualified, Maria wants to succeed and translate this success into women’s’ voting rights – and its 1867! Thomas Alva Edison hopes to use this event to promote his expertise as an inventor, thereby gaining recognition and backing for further inventions. Meanwhile, he often proclaims his success before it can be verified. Lastly, there was Cleveland Abbe, who would later be seen as the founder of the National Weather Service. His ordeal of observing the eclipse from Pike’s Peak was another highlight of this remarkable book.

Is it too late to book a room along the path of the 2017 US solar eclipse? Maybe, but that wouldn’t have stopped those who journeyed to Colorado and Wyoming using rail and mules. So do the next best thing and read this book. Highly recommended.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and recommend this book.