Most people would confess that science is quite boring to try and understand. But Bill Bryson has gathered together most of the documented evidence and theories that have been written about the origins of the universe, earth and life itself...and has repackaged it into a thoroughly entertaining read! This book really stirs the imagination, and reminds all of us - despite the superiority complex of most scientists - that actually we know very little about anything! In fact, everything in our lives is just a theory! It also reminds us that just our galaxy, let alone the universe, is so unfathomably vast, that we shouldn't be worrying too much about stuff anyway. We are just a microscopic spec in a vacuum...but there is obviously billions of other life forms out there! Yet we must remember how lucky we are, despite the HUGE odds, that we exist at all! Essential reading! The most interesting book i've ever had the pleasure to read....

I am a big fan of Bill Bryson anyway, so was quite intrigued to find him turning his hand to....well nearly everything, which he does with aplomb.

Do not be put off by the subject matter, Bryson, in his inimitable style, manages to make everything not only accessible but interesting and often funny. This is another great addition to the Bryson catalogue. If only school text books could be half as well written as this!

Very good book, but all the confusing science jargon into plain English. A great read, and teaches you a lot along the way. Bill Bryson has defiantly out done himself with this book!