The science of film explored at Atlantic

Atlantic is to publish Science(ish), a book on the science behind films by Michael Brooks and Rick Edwards based on their popular podcast of the same name.

Atlantic’s non-fiction editorial director Mike Harpley acquired UK and Commonwealth rights (excluding Canada) in Science(ish): The Peculiar Science Behind the Movies. The exclusive deal with Patrick Walsh was one of Walsh's first since launching the PEW Literary Agency.

Science(ish) will take the science behind films as starting point for discussing the latest findings in diverse subjects, from quantum physics and evolution to neuroscience and psychology. Preserving the "witty banter" that has brought the podcast success in the UK, it will feature a "tantalising" blend of expert interviews, film extracts, "amusing" chat, and "intelligent analysis", the publisher said.

Dr Brooks is the author of 13 Things that Don’t Make Sense, and a consultant for the New Scientist, and writes a weekly column for the New Statesman. Edwards is a writer and TV presenter known for hosting "Safeword", "Free Speech", and "T4". He has a degree in natural sciences from Cambridge.

Harpley said: “Rick and Michael are the perfect duo to write the next popular science bestseller. They’re both incredibly funny and have a great rapport. Michael has history as one of the most successful mass communicators of science in the country. Rick has a huge social media platform and will take popular science books to a new, younger readership. Science(ish) is the perfect example of how to effortlessly explain difficult concepts in an accessible and entertaining way and I am thrilled that Atlantic will be publishing this genius book next autumn.”

Atlantic will publish in October 2017 in hardback and publication will be accompanied by a Science(ish) tour around the UK. The authors have already planned early events to tie in with the podcast, in places including the Science Museum and the IMAX cinema.