Book Review: Being in the Shadow: Stories of the First-Time Total Eclipse Experience
July 2023 :
Book Review: Being in the Shadow: Stories of the First-Time Total Eclipse Experience
by Dr. Kate Russo, Belfast: Being in the Shadow, 2017, ISBN 978-1-9997078-0-4, softbound, $16.99, US
Reviewed by Francine Jackson
It seems surprising that there hasn’t been too much publicity concerning the October annular solar eclipse; however, next April’s total eclipse, the last in the continental U.S. for over two decades, should be shouted everywhere.
True, there are people for whom the event doesn’t mean much, but, sometimes that feeling can change. Scott’s book shows this.
A trained psychologist and avid eclipse chaser, Scott interviewed persons living near the 2012 total eclipse path in North Queensland, Australia. For some, the first thought was, “Whatever,” something was going on, but it wasn’t important. However, as the date came closer, there seemed to be more information, and consequently more curiosity, that perhaps it was something to watch for. One man, a self-described storm-chaser, had put an eclipse on his bucket list; another only became interested when he learned there would be an “Eclipse Festival” taking place on the path of totality.
But, then came totality. All doubt as to the beauty of this event was over. Nature seemed to change around them: insects began their night sounds; the daylight was awash in dimness; gasps of wonder came from everyone observing. The eclipse became a time of magic, where life seemed to change, not only for the creatures, but for humans, also. Every one became determined to watch another one, although expenses would prevent some from doing so.
Dr. Scott’s moral to her book is that everyone, regardless how much doubt there is in the beginning concerning a total solar eclipse, viewing one can change even the most persistent doubter. And, as astronomy educators, it is up to us to do our best to follow the examples Scott has in her book. For many of us, next year’s magnificent event may be our last chance to view one easily; and, we should have a whole group of new observers with us, to remind them of the beauty of the sky. If you don’t believe those who aren’t nature oriented wouldn’t be interested in watching this, read Scott’s book, and see how this idea can change, in this case, with just two minutes of totality.
