The Man Who Sold the Milky Way: A Biography of Bart BOK

The career of Dutch-born astronomer Bart J. Bok (1906-1983) spanned the mature era of international astronomy. Bok, who became a U.S. citizen in 1938, was the driving force in creating observational definitions of the Milky Way and other phenomena of galaxies. If there was a less controversial, more roundly admired scientist in this century it could only have been Priscilla Bok (1896-1975) who figures prominently in this authorized biography, as both colleague and spouse of more than 30 years. Together, they created and edited the classic undergraduate text, The Milky Way , through five editions starting in 1941. Years before his death, Bok designated Levy, an amateur astronomer and author of The Sky: A User's Guide , as his official biographer. Levy's comprehensive account, limning a storybook career brilliantly lit with moments of scientific discovery, travel and success in the realms of academia and international politics, will appeal especially to young astronomers and science historians. Photos not seen by PW. (Nov.)