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Obviously there is a bit of humor in the book, as the title suggests, and I would suspect that based on the amount of information contained in the book (and that Bryson is not an expert in the fields) that it is not what would be called a definative statement on any of the subjects, but there is more than enough to "get your feet wet" and you can always pursue more formal material in those matters.Very worthwhile and fun. Having read a few of Bryson's books, he has become on of my favorites to read. He is pretty special in my book, with a perfect blend of research, life experience and a great sense of humor.Of course when I saw the title "A Short History of Nearly Everything" I thought I knew what to expect in line with his other books, and looked forward to it because I thought it would cover a little bit of some subjects that I knew (or knew nothing about), and it worked out to be that and more.There is alot of information contained in this book, more than I expected, and he is able to clearly get across his ideas about a wide range of subjects.
Some of the specific how's are glossed over; statements are made about atomic physics and cosmology without giving much print to how the ideas were created or demonstrated. Bryson illuminates not only the breathtaking scope and variety of the world around us, he also shows us the surprising, humorous and above all human endeavor behind the scientific pursuit of truth. The petty bickering, the serendipitous meetings and false starts that provide a sharp contrast to the common perception of knowledge moving steadily and unerringly toward enlightenment. It's hard to find an area in life where science and technology does not play at least some role. But at its best, this book reminds me of the essays of Asimov. If you just want an overview of the basic principles behind each field of science, you should probably look into "Science Matters: Achieving Scientific Literacy" by Hazen and Trefil as it gives remarkable breadth in a short read. Thus many people are trying to fill in the gaps of their science education. But if you have the time and want to get a better feel for how science as a process works, this is the book for you.
Overall, the read is definitely recommended to anyone who has the intention of understanding the workings of the world without ever having to step outside. What is also commendable is that Bryson avoids often controversial subjects while portraying what is thought to be the closest interpretation of the truths of the world as we know it today; evolution is discussed and the beginning of the universe is pondered without presenting disagreeable tones or underlying interpretations. It's no surprise that Bill Bryson is able to make almost anything enjoyable to read, and the same is true in "A Short History." Although points of his research sometimes superfluous to the average reader surface throughout the book, Bryson presents the reader with just enough information to have a grasp on - no pun intended - seemingly nearly everything. The read is slow at times, but the concepts are incredible and mind-blowing; Bryson has evidently cut no corners.
And if you know any youngsters with a scientific bent -- perfect.Highest recommendation. Bill Bryson makes all the astonishing scientific discoveries of our world fresh again. The reader is surprised to find himself in our miraculous universe, and enjoys the often hilarious adventures and interesting pesonalities of the scientists who made the discoveries.I'm buying copies for friends.
I really lkie this read. Most of what we know and act upon is made up and seems to match somebodies interpretation of data, data that may be decades or centuries old. JCAngus[.]. If you're interested in how big big numbers are or how small small numbers are this is an iteresting and humerous read. The message comes through that when a new idea is put forth the person who wins the awards is the loudest and longest speaker, maybe even decades later.
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