Jon Gertner
Jon Gertner is an acclaimed American non-fiction author, best known for his books exploring science, technology, and the impact of these advances on society. He is the author of three detailed books: The Idea Factory: Bell Labs and The Great Age of American Innovation (2012), The Futile Pursuit of Happiness (2005), and The Ice at The End of the World (2020).
Gertner was born in Philadelphia in 1964 and grew up in Princeton, New York. He graduated from Princeton University in 1986 with a bachelor's degree in history and went on to explore the field of journalism, writing for magazines such as The New York Times, Wired, and Discover. In addition to his journalism work, Gertner is also an award-winning author, receiving the National Magazine Award for Feature Writing in 2010.
Gertner’s books explore the fascinating stories behind some of the most important advances in science and technology. His first book, The Idea Factory: Bell Labs and The Great Age of American Innovation (2012), examines the inner workings of one of the most innovative laboratories of the 20th century. It tells the fascinating story of Bell Labs, which is credited with the invention of the transistor and other impressive innovations such as the laser, the modem, and the satellite communications system. Gertner’s book uses in-depth research, interviews, and anecdotes to weave a compelling narrative about the incredible accomplishments of the laboratory and how they shaped the modern world.
His next book, The Futile Pursuit of Happiness (2005), tells the story of the rise and fall of the self-help movement in the United States. This book provides a comprehensive look at the history and effects of self-help literature, therapy, and methods, and examines the various motivations behind why people seek out these various forms of assistance. Gertner explores the ethical, legal, and economic questions that surround the industry, and in the process provides both a critical and sympathetic view of the individuals and organizations involved.
Gertner’s most recent book, The Ice at The End of the World (2020), is about the Greenland ice sheet and its potential changing landscape in the age of global warming. Gertner traveled to Greenland and spent two years conducting interviews and exploring the implications of climate change on the ice sheet. Using a combination of natural history, science, and anthropology, Gertner’s book provides readers with a vivid, unique insight into one of the most pressing environmental issues of the age.
Jon Gertner is an award-winning nonfiction author with an impressive collection of books that explore science and technology with rigorous research, insightful interviews, and clear, concise storytelling. His books offer readers a detailed look into the major advances in science and technology, as well as their implications on society, individuals, and the environment.
