Eine kurze Geschichte von fast allem

Bill Bryson sets out to learn how we know what we know about the universe, Earth and life, and writes up the answers for non-scientists. He starts with the Big Bang, moves through the size of the solar system, the age of the planet and the discovery of plate tectonics, then covers the origin of life, cells, extinctions and the human species. Along the way he describes eccentric scientists and the mistakes and rivalries that shaped their work, keeping his comic voice throughout.

For curious readers who left school with gaps in science, this works as a friendly tour. You come away with a broad map of physics, geology and biology and a handful of good anecdotes.

Outward-looking and clear-cut; a moderate read.

Best for readers like The Evidence Seeker. Which reader are you?