A Really Short History of Nearly Everything Hardcover – October 27, 2009 by Bill Bryson (Author)
A Really Short History of Nearly Everything – October 27, 2009 by Bill Bryson (Author)
Enter the world of science as Bill Bryson unmasks the mysteries of the universe.
Did you know that:
• Every atom in your body has almost certainly passed through several stars and been part of millions of organisms on its way to being you?
• If you are an average-sized kid, you have enough potential energy inside you to explode with the force of several hydrogen bombs?
And—What happened to dinosaurs? How big is the universe? Why are oceans salty? Is a meteor going to hit us?
Tackling everything from the Big Bang to the rise of civilization, Bill Bryson’s inimitable storytelling skill makes the why, how, and, just as importantly, the who of scientific discovery entertaining and accessible for young readers.
Editorial Reviews
From Booklist
Bryson offers a kid-friendly version of his popular-science compendium for adults, A Short History of Nearly Everything (2003), in this illustrated trip through, well, nearly everything. His enthusiasm is apparent right from the foreword, where he proclaims that “there isn’t anything in existence—not a thing—that isn’t amazing and interesting when you look into it.” He proceeds to back up this statement as he whirls through mind-numbing notions such as the creation of the universe and the life-span of an atom with good cheer and accessible, even exciting, writing. The two-page spreads meander their way through the various recesses of science with a combination of explanatory prose, historical anecdotes, wry asides, and illustrations that range from helpful to comical. Absent are source notes to back up Bryson’s many claims (or any other back matter aside from an index, photo credits, and a list of Bryson’s adult books). That isn’t to say he shouldn’t be trusted, but readers should take this for what it is: irreverent and illuminating edutainment, good for the science-phobic and -centric alike. Grades 5-8. --Ian Chipman
Review
"Written with his inimitable style and humour let loose upon who we are, how we got here and the systems that support us which is all beautifully illustrated" Publishing News "This history of life, the universe and everything in between is entertaining and Bryson is an excellent guide. Great for the kids and good for parents, too." Sunday Express "The incomparable Bill Bryson travels through time to bring bite-sized nuggets of information to the younger readers" Angels and Urchins "A great gift and one that will bear dipping into many a time as children discover more about their world and the universe" Eastern Press "Lively and enticing" Spectator --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Product Details
Age Range: 8 - 12 years
Grade Level: 3 - 7
Lexile Measure: 1190L (What's this?)
Hardcover: 169 pages
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers; 1st edition (October 27, 2009)
Language: English
10.7
USD
LimitedAvailability