The Best Popular Science Books of 2025: The Royal Society Book Prize

The Best Popular Science Books of 2025: The Royal Society Book Prize showcases a curated list of the most informative and readable new books on scientific subjects. Chosen by a panel of experts, including botanist Dr. Sandra Knapp, these books cover a wide range of topics from neurology to music therapy, manufacturing, historical science, extinction, and climate change. Each book is selected for its ability to make complex scientific ideas accessible and enjoyable for a general audience. The list includes 'Our Brains, Our Selves' by Masud Husain, which explores the concept of self through neurological case studies, and 'Music as Medicine' by Daniel Levitin, which delves into the therapeutic power of music. 'Your Life Is Manufactured' by Tim Minshall examines the intricate supply chains behind everyday objects, while 'The Forbidden Garden of Leningrad' by Simon Parkin tells the heartrending story of scientists protecting a seed bank during the Siege of Leningrad. 'Vanished' by Sadiah Qureshi provides a historical perspective on extinction, and 'Ends of the Earth' by Neil Shubin explores the impact of polar regions on global climate. These books not only educate but also inspire readers to think critically about the intersection of science and society.