Maggie Philbin

Two parcels will arrive at Downing Street and Whitehall this morning, with the  six books shortlisted for  the Science Book of the Year.

I’m not sure I should really show you my bedroom at the moment. I’m still weaving my way through book stalagmites to get to my wardrobe…but that’s the only drawback to being invited to be one of the judges for the annual prize run by The Royal Society.

I was thrilled to be asked… not only because it’s such a treat to have the best science writing delivered to your door but it’s also a chance to meet some brilliant fellow judges : author Tracy Chevalier, comedian Robin Ince, and Professor Tim Birkhead and  Dr Janet Anders both Royal Society fellows. We’ve worked our way through a scary amount of coffee, cakes and biscuits to reach our decisions.

It’s been an absorbing, mind-stretching and challenging few months. Over 150 books, covering every imaginable area of Science. From sea ice to unknown medieval geniuses, the natural history of everything from unicorns to teenagers,the inner workings of the brain to the wonders of the universe.

The 150 became 12 and we’re  now re-reading the final six, before making the final decision on the winner in October. In the meantime, I’d love to hear about the Science and Technology books you’ve enjoyed over the years, while I put up a few more bookshelves.

Today’s the day to celebrate women in technology by writing a few words about a woman you find inspiring. There’s more about Ada and how you can join in here.

I’ve read some of the blogs which have already come from all over the world and they’re brilliant. From clever mates at school, to talented podcasters, to unsung heroines. It’s a powerful insight into the nature of inspiration but most importantly a great record of female achievement.

On Friday, at an event for for 300 teenagers I asked the room to imagine a scientist. After a few seconds I asked  if anyone had imagined a woman. Just six hands were lifted.

Tonight, at the  Potluck Unconference I’ve a few minutes to talk about one woman who’s inspired me. I’m finding it very difficult to make a choice, which is why  some old colleagues from Tomorrow’s World may have  their ears burning. Friends like Judith Hann, who you’ll know and brilliant producers like  like Cynthia Page, Fiona Holmes, Dana Purvis, Caroline van Den Brul, Bettina Lerner, Sue Spindler, Sally Dixon, Teresa Hunt, Jane Aldous, Hilary McGough and Annis Barr, who made sure Judith and myself were never seen as technology handmaidens.

But while I decide, let me  celebrate my mum,  forced to leave school at 14 by her father (an engineer), who didn’t believe education for girls was important. For her, the war provided a great opportunity; she was swift to volunteer and went out to Egypt and Palestine with the WAAF, working in Signals with radar and as a wireless operator, jobs she loved.

Along with her friends,  she played a huge part in overthrowing received ideas about what women could and couldn’t do.

And later, she made sure that I had the education she missed. Thank you Mum.