Except for the first few pages, which I found difficult to follow, the book is an extraordinary,enlightening and entertaining journey into some understanding of the universe within which we live. An inviting primer that may lead the reader to greater study of our world. Neil Tyson's explanations can easily entice one to seek more information and knowledge as a reader of mystery novels would seek more clues. A great book.

I have read Origins, Death By Back Hole, and Space Chronicles before this one. I feel like I have read this book before. It reads like an updated Origins. Good material, but a waste of money for me.

This is a series of related essays about astrophysics. The author, Neil deGrasse Tyson, does a really great job taking an immensely complicated subject and conveying a distillation of that subject in layman terms. I still ended up looking up several terms, persons, and concepts to buttress my comprehension of the information discussed.It would be difficult to exaggerate how much I enjoyed this work. I purchased and read this book on Kindle while listening to the audiobook simultaneously. The audiobook was narrated by the author. I enjoyed that tremendously. Neil deGrasse Tyson comes across as an extremely intelligent, but very benevolent instructor / lecturer. I love that mixture.Some time ago I read another book, "A Universe From Nothing" by Lawrence M. Krausse. I felt there is a lot of overlap between these two fine works. Personally, I liked this book under review more than the book by Mr. Krausse. Another reader might enjoy reading that book for purposes of comparison and contrast.In summary, I completely enjoyed this reading experience. I intend to look for another book by Neil deGrasse Tyson. Thank You...

This is a good summary-level book of what's going on in astrophysics. It accomplishes it's intended purpose. Tyson's voice is distinct throughout. As it intended to be brief, explanation and detail are often left out or merely touched upon. If you like this and want more details and examination, I would recommend Bill Bryson's 'A Short History of Nearly Everything' which covers the subject matter much more thoroughly.

Not really sure if people in a hurry can understand it without some sort of background. It took me two - three reads for chapter 1 to understand it, I dont think I was not knowledgeable, I'd like to think I am a little bit less than average.. Still very hard read for me. Really doubt people in a hurry can understand the book entirely. If so, you're awesome! If not, don't worry, I am there with you! lol