American Scientist

The holidays end and, in the blink of a weary eye, a new year begins. The twinkly lights come down. Menorahs and ribbons and creches and Bendera are packed away for another year. Even as work resumes for those of us who were lucky enough to have some time off, we catch our collective breath. 

I'm not much for resolutions, but I've always found the early months of the year to be a meditative time. And a stack of books that I can't wait to read helps me feel that I'm starting the year out right.

Considering the windfall of bookstore gift cards tucked into stockings and envelopes over the holidays, there's no better time of year to get your own stack of books a-teetering on your nightstand. Here are a few recommendations of STEM books worth your attention, gift card dollars, or a library run. The image above, by the way, which shows a meticulously prepared Russian-language map of Manhattan, comes from our book for day 10.

Finally, if 12 book recommendations simply aren't enough, check out our recent selections for adult and young readers, or dig into our full coverage of STEM books. To stay up to date on our science culture coverage, as well as all things STEM, follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Google+.