The Guardian Bookshop makes over 180,000 books available with up to 40% discount, as well as highlighting some of our favourite publications in each genre.
Find out more.
30,000 copies sold in hardback. A hugely readable group-portrait of the Lunar Society of Birmingham - who were instrumental in catalysing the Industrial Revolution. To be promoted with a broadsheet press ad campaign. A key title for Christmas trade promotions. "The best book I've read this year - full of unexpected information, amazing characters and the real sense that scientific curiosity is as exciting as any 'artistic pursuit'". A S Byatt
Synopsis
Among the group of Midlands amateur experimenters who formed the Lunar Society and kick-started the Industrial Revolution, were Matthew Boulton, Josiah Wedgewood, James Watt and Erasmus Darwin. This account uncovers the friendships, political passions and love of knowledge that drove these men.
