Her Hidden Genius

When I saw that Marie Benedict had a book coming out in January 2022, I was anxious to get my hands on it. (After all, 2021 gave us His Personal Librarian, a co-authored effort of Benedict and Victoria C. Murray that was a delight to read.) In Her Hidden Genius, readers are introduced to the highly gifted, extremely passionate scientist, by the name of Rosalyn Franklin. For those in the science and medical fields, her name is not be so hidden but to the rest of us, it’s still what I would consider a largely unknown story. For the caliber of her discovery and contribution, we should all know this woman’s name. Her groundbreaking discoveries and contributions to DNA are incredible. Her Hidden Genius unfolds in both France and Franklin’s home country of England. While it is mostly about her experiences in science and building her career, the story also explores how the effects of personal career decisions shaped her ideology and took a toll on her personal life. In a time where most women were expected to be married with a family, Rosalyn Franklin whole-heartedly devoted herself to science. It was her home. It was her comfort. She felt like she belonged in this space.

Franklin was a quirky as she was brilliant. She was different (an outsider) and her differences were beautifully illustrated throughout the book. Franklin could easily be considered a bit socially awkward. In all of her brilliance, that was her one major challenge. It was fitting, though, because she could be considered a bit abrasive (which went against the grain of the times. Women weren’t expected to be so blunt.).

 In one of her lab stints, male scientists stole her findings and took credit for hard work. The world thought these DNA discoveries belonged to Crick and Watson when in fact, they belonged to a brilliant female scientist! Franklin eventually found her “home” amongst scientists who really got to know her, love her, and build lasting friendships with her. This groundbreaker eventually found her “home” amongst people who really got to know her, love her, and befriend her. It was here, that she really soared.  The telling of Franklin’s story emphasizes the ever-important fact that all stories need to be told. As a society, we learn from both the past and present.

 Good to knows:

This story is told in first person. This is brilliant because it gives the feeling that Rosalind Franklin controls the narrative. Since she was hidden during her time in the lab, telling the story in first person puts her in the forefront. I find this view to be so respectful to the person and to her story.

 The story is a good-sized read at 274 pages. If historical fiction is not really your thing, this would be a great starter book.