Heather

I read this book after seeing the movie. It is definitely more journalistic rather than non-fiction, but excellent writing. I am so impressed with the author's investigative journalism. She told a story that needed to be told. What amazing women these are! I also hold a degree in mathematics and got so excited reading about their love for their work and the “behind the scenes” work that gave them purpose.

I started my Stegner reading with Crossing to Safety and picked this one up recently. While I felt that the conclusion was not quite as satisfying, I was captivated by Stegner's intense realism. He creates characters so realistic one can hardly believe that they aren't real people (although I'm well aware he draws upon real life for many of his characters). I love his uncanny descriptions of human perception and use of analogy. The novel is truly one of the best I've read.