Preston university scientists bring superheroes to life in book for children’s wards and libraries this Christmas

The seven academics from the University of Central Lancashire have partnered up with the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and The Reading Agency to share their new book ‘Unmasked: The Science of Superheroes’, with libraries across the UK and children who are spending the festive season in hospital.

It aims to bring their favourite superheroes to life and spread some joy over Christmas, to show how reality can be just as exciting as what's on our screens.

Co-author Robert Walsh, Professor of Solar Physics at UCLan, said: “We wanted to show how the science of the world we all inhabit can be just as wondrous, exciting and jaw-droppingly brilliant as the explosive exploits we relish seeing on our cinema screens and reading about in our comic books.”

And fellow co-writer Dr Nicky Danino, Principal Lecturer in Computer Science, commented: “It’s an amazing feeling to know this book could inspire thousands more youngsters to engage with science in a novel way thanks to thousands of copies being placed in UK libraries and in a large number of children’s hospital wards.

“The public’s reaction to the book, when we launched it back in March, was so positive. To receive such significant support from the Science and Technology Facilities Council and the Reading Agency for this work at UCLan is phenomenal.”

The popular science book, first released in March uses computing, engineering, maths, physics, biology and psychology, with the scientists having been turned into superheroes themselves across pages of the book.

Dr Jenni Chambers, Interim Head of Public Engagement and Skills for STFC, said: “We are delighted to have been able to help bring this fantastic, entertaining and educational book to public libraries though supporting partnerships with The Reading Agency and UCLan.

"Public libraries are an amazing resource, the book is amazing and STFC know this will help it get into the hands of more readers, inspiring them about the wonder of science.”

Public libraries throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will receive 7,000 free copies of the book. The Reading Agency has coordinated the book gifting as part of their mission to get the nation reading.

And many children’s wards, including those at Liverpool’s Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, have already received their copies.

Hayley Thomas, Head of Corporate Fundraising at Alder Hey Children’s Charity, added: “Thank you for generously donating the Unmasked: The Science of Superheroes books for our patients. Our Play Team was delighted to receive them. New books are a great way to entertain patients during their hospital stay so your donation is really appreciated.”

Further information on the project and how to purchase a copy of the book can be found here.

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