Virtual: Superspy Science: Science, Death & Tech in the World of James Bond

The adventures of James Bond have thrilled and delighted readers since Ian Fleming’s novel Casino Royale was published in 1953, and when the movie of Dr No was released in 1962, Bond quickly became the world’s favourite secret agent. Science and technology have always been central to the plots that make up the world of Bond. Kathryn Harkup explores 007’s exploits from the practicalities of building a volcano-based lair, to whether being covered in gold paint really will kill you. This talk will give you the answers to all your Bond villain questions.

Kathryn is a former chemist tuned author. She completed a doctorate on her favourite chemicals, phosphines, and went on to further postdoctoral research before realising that talking, writing and demonstrating science appealed a bit more than hours slaving over a hot fume-hood. She writes and gives regular public talks on the disgusting and dangerous side of science.

Kathryn’s first book was the international best-seller A is for Arsenic: The Poisons of Agatha Christie, which was shortlisted for a Mystery Readers International Macavity Award and a BMA Book Award. She has also explored more of the macabre side of literature in Making the Monster: The Science of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, Death by Shakespeare: Snakebites, Stabbings and Broken Hearts and Vampirology: The Science of Horror’s Most Famous Fiend. She has also delved into the deadly world of 007 in Superspy Science: Science, Death and Tech in the World of James Bond. Kathryn has also written about her first love, chemistry, in The Secret Lives of the Elements. Her most recent book is a follow up to her exploration of the elements, The Secret Lives of Molecules.

Made possible by a partnership with the Ashland Public Library.

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