The Geek Atlas: 128 Places where Science & Technology come alive
by John Graham-Cumming

I think it may have started with 1,000 Places to See Before You Die and 1,000 Places to See in the U.S.A. & Canada Before You Die

I have both books (they were gifts) but have hardly made a dent in crossing these "must-see places" off my list.

The Geek Atlas: 128 Places Where Science and Technology Come Alive is a "Must-see places" book for those of us interested in science and technology.

It lists places of interest from Australia through the US and alphabetically within countries. I may not get to see the Parkes Radio telescope in Parkes Australia but there are plenty of destinations in the US and several close to Cleveland.

Even if you are not planning on visiting any of the landmark destinations, the book is still valuable because besides the expected travel information (even longitude and latitude) each place has a relevant science lesson included.

For example, in the article about the Tesla Museum in Belgrade Serbia you will get a 2 page explanation about AC vs DC. The article on the 660-Tonne Golden Ball in Taipei, Taiwan includes a primer on pendulums.

Though "Geek" is in the title, don't expect all computer destinations. The book is about science and technology.

For those of us in Cleveland, the nearby destinations include the Fermilab in Batavia, IL, the Sagan Planet Walk in Ithaca, NY and Joseph Priestly's House in Northumberland, PA.

Ohio gets two entries: NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland (with an included explanation of Bernoulli's Principle) and the Early Television Museum in Hilliard Ohio. Who knew? Hilliard is north of Columbus so it's only a few hours trip. (It's spelled Hillard in the book)

This is an interesting book that will teach you some science and give you some ideas for that next trip.

What are you reading?  Let us know at dan@greatlakesgeek.com