Author Talk

Best-known for the 100-point ‘centi-grade’ temperature scale that bears his name, Anders Celsius was a scientist of astonishing breadth. From the Northern Lights to air pressure and sea levels, he unravelled the mysteries of many of nature’s greatest phenomena during his short life. His mind, methods and manners contain powerful lessons for how humans live in the 21st century and beyond – if we’re inclined and willing to listen.

Ian Hembrow's book, Celsius: a life and death by degrees, is the first full-length English language biography of this world-changing Swedish scientist. Longlisted for the 2025 Wolfson History Prize, it tracks not just Celsius’ life and times, but also the author’s journey to uncover his story.

Ian Hembrow is a Bristol-based author and Humanist celebrant, who has written widely including for The Guardian, New Statesman and the Oldie. His previous books, Making Medicines Safe & Rare Events are on global medicines safety.