Product Description

A wide-ranging exploration of our universe -- from "what makes the wind blow?" to "how was the moon formed?" -- in questions-and-answer format, written in vintage Asimov style. "A fine introduction to modern astronomical theory." -- LIBRARY JOURNAL

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #24751 in Books
• Published on: 1992-11-23
• Released on: 1992-11-23
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Mass Market Paperback
• 288 pages

Features

• ISBN13: 9780449220597
• Condition: NEW
• Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
• Click here to view our Condition Guide and Shipping Prices

From Library Journal
Asimov has now published at least 460 books and his list continues to grow. In this one, he tells us what scientists know today about the nature of the universe. He does so through 111 short (two- or three-page) chapters, each headed by a simple question: "What is sunlight?"; "What are stars?"; "How old is the universe?"; etc. The answers include historical background and current theory, presented in simple, easy-to-read terms. Although most of this is familiar ground to regular readers of scientific books and magazines, it is a fine introduction to modern astronomical theory for the intellectually curious high school student or intelligent but scientifically illiterate adult.
- Harold D. Shane, Baruch Coll., CUNY
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From the Inside Flap
A wide-ranging exploration of our universe -- from "what makes the wind blow?" to "how was the moon formed?" -- in questions-and-answer format, written in vintage Asimov style. "A fine introduction to modern astronomical theory." -- LIBRARY JOURNAL

Customer Reviews

3 generations of the Andersons agreed this is GREAT!
I first read this book at about age 35. Then lent it to my 66-year-old father. Just as was I unable, so, too, was he unable to put it down for more than a meditative moment to complicate Asimov's musings.

After Dad read it I loaned it to my older son, then aged 12. He had the same addiction as Dad and I.

The three of us are not prone to dwell on science, history, or anything of great consequence often, but we still frequently discuss topics first brought to our attention by probably the greatest, and certainly one of the most prolific and diverse writers in history.

I challenge any reader to not contemplate many of the thoughts expressed by Asimov in this fascinating and intriguing book.

Asimov and Hawking were probably the two most intelligent science writers of the 20th Century. Asimov alone, however, also was a skilled writer of history and fiction.

Great Read (as usual) -- but a bit simplistic
Asimov's writing is in tip top form -- clear,straightforward, and with his sense of wit that is always present.

However, some of the questions are pretty elementary for most of his fans -- e.g., why does the moon go through phases, what is the future of our sun, what are tides...

Important questions, to be sure, but, not as engaging on his writings concerning the beginning of the universe, the atom, or measurements.

Brilliant
If you've ever looked up in wonder at the stars in the night sky, or puzzled over the origins of the Earth, this is the book for you. A fabulous journey through centuries of scientific curiosity and discovery that left me wishing for more!