Lauded by multiple sources as one of the best nonfiction books of 2025, The Feather Detective: Mystery, Mayhem, and the Magnificent Life of Roxie Laybourne, by Chris Sweeney, shares the fascinating biography of the world’s first forensic ornithologist. Using nothing more than her microscope and bits of feathers, Smithsonian scientist Roxie Laybourne investigated deadly airplane crashes and helped prosecute murderers, kidnappers, and poachers. She broke down barriers for women in science and pioneered a new field in forensics. “A biography that reads like a novel,” said The Wall Street Journal. This one promises to be a great read to start the new year!
For details on the meeting, contact Mike Warner at mwarner2543@gmail.com.