icecurtain's review

4.0

Odd fusion of a discussion of religious myths from history, especially Christian, and science primer for children.
The author is trying to use one to lead to the other, but that didn't really work for me. I would have liked more discussion on myths with a little science. Don't need evolution overview to explain why turning water into wine doesn't make sense, for example.

I don't know who the intended audience for this book might be. It certainly is not really for those with a background in science or engineering. Ironically, those are the type of folks who would be most interested in reading a book by Dawkins... and they are quite likely to already be well-versed in the basic biology/geology/astronomy that Dawkins presents.
The myths are kind of fun, but I'm not convinced they added much.
One thing I do enjoy about reading Dawkins is that he does come up with different sorts of metaphors/analogies to explain concepts than are generally presented in classroom/textbook settings and often re-words and re-reasons things in a way that can help me understand them more fully. Alas, this book did not contain much material of that nature.
funny informative medium-paced

putperest's review

5.0

this book has a deeply contagious awe and appreciation of understanding reality, science and the universe. it is clearly targeted to a younger audience, but if you are a curious adult who is lacking basic scientific knowledge, this would be a great place to start.
hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

Great science book for children. 

leenamax's review

5.0

I've finally read a book by one of the four horsemen! (Shhhh...Don't tell. I'm a bad atheist.) This book is simply fantastic. Each chapters starts out with myths stories surrounding different subjects and then goes into the science of what's really happening.

Although none of the science was new to me, it was a fun refresher and Dawkins really has a gift for explaining complicated concepts in understandable ways.

The gorgeous illustrations really bring the whole book together. I felt silly sometimes pulling out my picture book to read while on the bus sometimes but adults can appreciate illustrations too! :D If the print version is this pretty, I imagine the ipad version is spectacular!

I know my favorite chapter "Why do bad things happen?" would be one of my dad's favorites too as it's a conversation we've had over and over again, especially after natural disasters.

I bought it for a teenager for Christmas and I hope he enjoys it as much as I did.

cobrapie's review

5.0
informative inspiring reflective fast-paced

boboswell's review

4.0

A very nice walkthrough of some interesting scientific concepts, such as evolution, light, earthquakes, and various aspects of the universe. Very informative and entertaining.

ilyssssaaaaa's review

2.5
informative fast-paced

parag_nayak's review

4.0

Kind of an interesting take on the various myths ... nice images to describe the myths and facts said in this book...