Dr. Kathryn Harkup, writer, science communicator and vampirologist, will be discussing her book, "Superspy Science: Science, Death and Tech in the World of James Bond." Learn all about the science behind James Bond's exploits – armaments, tactics, plots and enemy tech. Join us for this fun and fascinating conversation!

Registration is required to attend via Zoom - please register HERE. After registering for Zoom, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting online.

RECORDING NOTE: PARTS of this program will be recorded and a video link will be sent to all registrants.

About the book:

The adventures of James Bond have thrilled readers since Ian Fleming's novel “Casino Royale” was published in 1953, and when the movie “Dr. No” was released in 1962, Bond quickly became the world's favorite secret agent.

Science and technology have always been central to the plots that make up the world of Bond, and in “Superspy Science,” Kathryn Harkup explores the full range of 007's exploits and the arms, technologies, tactics and downfalls of his various foes. From the practicalities of building a volcano-based lair, to whether being covered in gold paint really will kill you, and – if your plan is to take over the world – whether it is better to use bacteria, bombs, or poison – this book has all the answers and more.

Could our favorite Bond villains actually achieve world domination? Were the huge variety of weapons and technology in Bond's arsenal from both the films and books ever actually developed in real life? And would 007 actually escape all those close shaves intact? From the plots to the gadgets to the ludicrous ways that his life is threatened, “Superspy Science” takes an in-depth look at the scientific world of James Bond.

Kathryn Harkup is a former chemist who has turned writer and science communicator. Her interests are in anything gothic, gory and geeky, and preferably all three. She gives regular public talks on the disgusting and dangerous side of science. Her first book was the international best-seller “A is for Arsenic: The Poisons of Agatha Christie.” She has also written “Making the Monster: The Science of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein,” “Death by Shakespeare” and “Superspy Science: Science, Death and Tech in the World of James Bond.” Her latest book is “V is for Venom: Agatha Christie's Chemicals of Death.”

This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Ashland Public Library and in partnership with a multitude of MA Libraries.

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