The Upright Thinkers

In The Upright Thinkers Leonard Mlodinow traces the development of scientific thought.  He starts right at the beginning tracing our species evolution into the curious, big-brained creatures that we are and then branches into detailed looks at specific developments in the fields of science as well as the principal people involved.  

The book in interesting and engaging but dense --- it is not a quick read.  The author writes in an approachable first person and interjects anecdotes from his own life by way of illustrating points being made.  Recommended for those interested in a history of science.