The "passion" of the title refers to the role of Sarton's (1884-1956) passionate relationship with British artist Mary (Elwes) Sarton in his fathering of the discipline of the history of science. Science historian Pyenson (Western Michigan U.), who in 1995 lectured in the George Sarton Chair at the U. of Ghent in Belgium (from which the Sartons fled at the start of World War I to the U.S. where he taught at Harvard), traces the intertwined lives of these intellectuals whose marriage represents the modern trend toward a more equal partnership. The joint biography features excerpts from their letters to each other on diverse topics including sexuality, and examples of Mary Sarton's outstanding decorative arts works. Annotation 2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
