A Really Short History of Nearly Everything

by Bill Bryson

Book Overview

Explore the mysteries of the universe without ever leaving your home Bill Bryson takes on the world of science and answers questions big and small, perfect for curious readers looking to learn outside of the classroom

Did you know that:

- Every atom in your body has almost certainly passed through several stars and been part of millions of organisms on its way to being you?

- If you are an average-sized kid, you have...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0385738102
• ISBN13: 9780385738101
• Release Date: October 2009
• Publisher: Delacorte Press
• Length: 176 Pages
• Weight: 2.12 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 8.8" x 11.1"
• Age Range: 8 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 3 to 7

Customer Reviews

Bryson wins hands down

This is an absolutely outstanding work which should be required reading for evry student, and every person interested in the progress of science "as it happens". It is, truly, a towering achievement for which Mr. Bryson deserves an extraordinary credit.

Actually Makes Science Fun -- and Funny

I'm still in the section where some very curious British men are developing the science of geology (it started as an elite good ol' boys club that developed into practically a cult). Who'd of thunk this would be a hilarious topic, but it is when Bryson is telling it. I can't say I understood the chapter on how early scientists came up with the exact weight of the earth, but I certainly laughed a lot at their quirky personalities, which to me is a lot more valuable than how to weigh a planet. I'm excited to read the rest of Bryson's work. By Jaimal Yogis, author of Saltwater Buddha

Wow!

I had not realized that this book was destined at a young public when I bought it. I found it enthralling nonetheless since it presents an outstanding synthesis of up to date information about our universe. Its short length makes it very easy to read and allows the reader to link individual topics with others. Very pedagogically, a summary is included at the end of each chapter. Throughout, colour illustrations liven up the text (though some of course are a bit juvenile). Personally, I consider that the bearded author's cartoon portrait appearing on each summary page is a bit narcissist on his part but that is a minor bother and others may think it humanizes the work. More importantly, greater care should have been taken in reviewing the book. There are quite a few cases of contradicting data from one page to another. For instance, the word «million» is omitted in the summary for chapter two and the earth's age is stated as 4,550 years! Nevertheless, this is a highly recommended book . . . and not only for children and teenagers.

Brilliant!!!

Simply put, this book should be in every classroom on the planet. It makes interesting reading of some of the dullest subjects on the planet. Yet it is a total page turner and is filled to the brim with fascinating data, information, facts and figures. I learnt more reading this book in a couple days then I did in years of science and history classes at school.Buy itRead itLove it!A total and complete work of art from Bryson.