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4.21 AVERAGE
4.21 AVERAGE
challenging
funny
informative
reflective
slow-paced
If you are reading this book in 2025, you’ll notice that some of the content is out of date. Most topics are still accurate and described in a very entertaining and informative manner. I felt inspired to read more modern sources of the topics described, so I would still recommend this book as a thoughtful introduction to science writing.
I first read this book when I was in primary school. My dad bought me a copy of it on tape and I was enthralled. I really appreciate that Bill Bryson makes difficult concepts accessible to an audience that otherwise might struggle to read about them.
While I didn't end up pursuing a STEM career, this book encouraged my love of science and desire to understand the world. It's definitely not written for children, but I think kids who already read widely could happily access it.
While I didn't end up pursuing a STEM career, this book encouraged my love of science and desire to understand the world. It's definitely not written for children, but I think kids who already read widely could happily access it.
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
Meh - audiobook is abridged so might’ve enjoyed it more in full?
A nice introduction to a whole lot of topics that I wasn't even aware I was interested in. Though that is what it was, rightly so considering how much gets covered, but an introduction. Jumped around a lot so was a little confused sometimes about timings but overall pretty easy to understand and has gotten me excited for a lot of new things!
informative
medium-paced
This book is really about everything. It's a really funny look at the world, but it's really long. It took commitment to actually finish.
informative
lighthearted
To be honest, I'd love whatever Bill Bryson writes. He's like that uncle that comes over for Christmas, and never stops talking. He's simultaneously so freaking annoying in his rambling, but so riveting in his subject. This is probably one of my more favourite topics that Bryson writes about.
challenging
funny
informative
medium-paced