Science-y Nonfiction Novels

<p>So, kind of a random subject, but:</p>

<p>Anyone know of any good books about (somewhat) math/science? Something that doesn't read like a textbook and presents a new or interesting perspective on the topic. Oh and is "good" from a literary standpoint as well. I guess I'm thinking of something like Sophie's World, but not for philosophy?</p>

<p>I know there are quite a few physics-esque ones out there, but I can't recall the title/author, & I'm interested in other fields as well (math, chem, bio, astronomy?).</p>

<p>i heard about the Carbon Age ( go on NPR.org and look it up and they have a review somewhere)..i want to read it, but i'm not sure when i'll get it.</p>