Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli is a novel that explores themes of conformity, kindness, and identity through the story of Stargirl Caraway, a unique and free-spirited girl who attends high school for the first time after being homeschooled. The book follows her relationship with Leo, a shy student who struggles with the societal pressures of being associated with Stargirl. As Stargirl navigates her new environment, she faces both admiration and rejection, ultimately teaching Leo valuable lessons about being true to oneself.
The Lost City of the Monkey God is a gripping narrative about a centuries-old legend of a lost city in Honduras. Douglas Preston joins a team of scientists using lidar technology to map the dense jungle, leading to the discovery of a sprawling metropolis. The expedition faces numerous dangers, including deadly snakes and diseases, culminating in a medical mystery that unfolds after their return. The book blends history, adventure, and suspense, offering a unique blend of exploration and scientific inquiry.
The book follows Arthur Dent, an ordinary Englishman, whose house and planet are about to be demolished. He is rescued by his friend Ford Prefect, an alien researcher for the 'Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy'. Together, they embark on a journey through space, encountering various characters such as Zaphod Beeblebrox, the two-headed, three-armed president of the galaxy, Trillian, a human woman, and Marvin, a paranoid android. The story involves their adventures on the spaceship Heart of Gold, which has an Infinite Improbability Drive, and their quest to understand the ultimate question of life, the universe, and everything, which is revealed to be '42'. The novel is known for its humor, satire, and imaginative storytelling.
Grace Crain-Wright, a plant ecologist and STEM educator, takes us on an extraordinary journey from her academic roots in the US to her cutting-edge research at ETH Zurich. As a key figure in the European Space Agency’s MELiSSA project, Grace pioneers nutrient recycling technologies for sustainable space travel, bridging environmental and space sciences. Her work embodies interdisciplinary innovation, integrating indigenous knowledge and multicultural perspectives to tackle global challenges. Beyond research, Grace inspires future generations through the GLOBE program, engaging students worldwide with hands-on STEM education tied to earth and space sciences. Her reflections on balancing life, mentorship, and science highlight the human side of discovery, offering a compelling narrative of resilience, innovation, and a passion for creating a sustainable future both on Earth and beyond.
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction to Science Beyond the Lab
(00:17) Meet Grace Crain-Wright: Plant Ecologist and STEM Educator
(00:59) Grace's Journey Across the States and Europe
(01:56) PhD Research at ETH Zurich
(02:27) Challenges and Discoveries in Space Agriculture
(08:15) The GLOBE Program and STEM Education
(14:32) Grace's Passion for Extreme Environments
(20:42) Reflections on ETH Zurich Experience
(29:15) Teaching and Inspiring Future Scientists
(30:28) Closing Thoughts and Personal Insights
We Are ETH 
