A Short History of Nearly Everything: The bestselling popular science book of the 21st Century: 5 (Bryson, 5)

This rough guide to the big scientific concepts that have emerged over the last few centuries has plenty of jaw dropping insights for lay readers like myself. It is full of Bryson's trademark exuberance and wry humour and plenty (perhaps a few too many?) metaphors and analogies to help us understand the inexplicable scale of things - from the very small to the very large. What I enjoyed most about this book is that he includes brief biographies of the scientists - both famous and not-so-famous - who discovered the key concepts we take as scientific fact today - what is particularly interesting is just how many of these people were not scientists at all, but people with curious minds using rudimentary instruments who made astonishing discoveries that still hold water today. Covering everything from cosmology to atomic physics to geology and climate - never patronising or overly simplified, and never obtuse , this is a very enjoyable read.

I assume most people like me, are used to learning about science by fixating on one topic at a time, and becoming immersed (and very often lost) in the technical jargon and intricacies. This book surprised me in the amount of effort Bryson took to go through book after book of different sciences, both old and new, (from physics, chemistry, geology and many more) and connect the dots into several cohesive stories about our home, planet Earth, and its residents. The book's title is very apt.The breadth of history covered by this book is massive (as well as weighty!) – from the first fraction of a second of the Universe’s existence to the recent discoveries of the 20th century. Obviously there are certain gaps (hence the "nearly"), but Bryson readily points out what he does not know. It is an honest history of the scientific accomplishments since the earth's inception. It is a must read for every human, as it hands you a feeling of bursting pride - being a participant in humanity's great journey. Although the most surprising feature is the balance between the roles played by chance in many of these discoveries, and the unyielding human determination to identify a grey area, and seek knowledge accordingly. The book’s strength lies in its ability to convey the wonder (and complexity) of science to the average layman - mainly because Bryson, himself, has no scientific background and only recently familiarised himself with these wonders. More than just a condensed text of salient, factual information - Bryson brings this to life whilst describing the surrounding imperfect scientific process (why the information was sought after, how scientists honed their approaches from producing wildly incorrect estimations to the precisely calculated figures we use today, and why information or possibilities lie outside our grasp), as well as amusing anecdotes. The other strength of this book is that by approaching it from the POV of a non-scientist, Bryson nourishes our wonderment and understanding to grow as information fluidly disguised in Bryson’s energetic, quirky, familiar and humorous prose seep out each chapter, letting us journey alongside some of the most prominent (and some of the less prominent but equally brilliant) scientists in their obsessive pursuits. In fact, I found information that I loosely remembered from my schooldays and now find that the little bit of context and intrigue that Bryson adorns them with has left them impressed in my mind forever. [...]

This book offers a fascinating journey through the history of the world and the development of science as we understand it today. Rather than presenting information in a dry or overly academic way, the author has a talent for transforming complex facts into engaging stories. This narrative approach makes the material both accessible and enjoyable, allowing the reader to absorb a wide range of knowledge without feeling overwhelmed. What stands out most is the balance between education and entertainment. The book is clearly well-researched and informative, yet it never feels like a traditional textbook. Instead, it reads more like a series of interconnected stories that bring historical events and scientific discoveries to life. Overall, I found the book both interesting and educational. It is an excellent choice for readers who want to learn more about history and science in a way that is engaging, approachable, and genuinely enjoyable. A great read for anyone curious about how our understanding of the world has evolved.

Just a great synopsis of history in an easy readable fashion. Easily understandable explanations for complex subjects interspersed with with and humour. Highly recommended.

This is a fantastic book that covers a huge amount of information. It's presented interestingly and engagingly, making it accessible to a wide range of readers.

I enjoyed it. Plenty of interesting facts and reminders.

As usual, Bill Bryson has written an entertaining, humorous book. Penguin is a reliable publisher and the book is well-printed and of good quality. If you like Bill Bryson, go ahead and buy.

574 Pages thick but the book is so interesting that it will grip u in the first chapter itself if u have the slightest interest in science or humans or history. Covers Physics, Chemistry, Geology, Biology, Anthropology, Astronomy and a lot more sciences and their evolution over the last 300-400 years. We know a lot yet we hardly know anything as yet. The most humbling thing is if Nature wants the human species can be at the brink of extinction in around 2 hours flat. Just the yellowstone volcano has to blow out with full power. 😄 The book is recommended to develop gratitude for our current existence and good fortune and truely does a good job at that. Humans are the nature’s best creation as yet and also the most irresponsible. We have a responsibility that remains largely ignored.

The book was perfect, brand new.