What if the very air we breathe today holds within it the history of great people and events? Sam Kean would tell you that it does! Using his vast knowledge of the sciences, he examines the composition of our air, the profound effect it has had on our planet, and how it continues to drive the actions of humanity today. By tracing the history of the chemicals in our atmosphere, Sam will take you on a journey through time, from the era of dinosaurs to some of the most pivotal chemical discoveries ever made by human beings. 

Sam Kean is a New York Times bestselling author responsible for The Tale of the Dueling Neurosurgeons, The Disappearing Spoon, and The Violinist's Thumb. He has written pieces for The Best American Nature and Science Writing, The New Yorker, The Atlantic, the New York Times Magazine, Psychology Today, Slate, Mental Floss, and other publications, and he has made guest appearances on NPR's "Radiolab," "All Things Considered," and "Fresh Air."

Robert Krulwich is a radio and television journalist who currently serves as a science correspondent for NPR and is a co-host of the program Radiolab. He has worked with prominent networks such as ABC, CBS, NPR and Pacifica.

Come join us in the rare book room as Sam Kean discusses his new book with Robert Krulwich!