I enjoyed reading this book far more than I imagined I would. Though the detail of the third chapter outstripped my stamina for the consideration of sunspots, the rest of the book proved gripping. Biagioli writes the science clearly and the history beautifully. At issue here is the economy of credit or trust within which various scientific tools (telescopes, books) were proofed and various discoveries (Medicean Stars, asymmetries of lunar surface, sunspots) shared. Biagioli capably crafts a sense of the European drama of scientific disclosure at this pivotal moment in history, for Galileo had to determine what he would share with whom and when--with his livelihood and reputation riding on each decision. A credible and savvy Galileo is evident in his capture of Medici patronage, as is his failure with the Inquisition in whose theological strands his persuasion progressively became mired. Also receiving discussion are the relationships between text and image, art and science, nature and book, center and periphery, and states and scientific societies. On the whole this book communicates what feels like a mastery of a subject told from a neat perspective and an ideal of history writing.

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