Bryson is a wonderful writer. He makes history live with a human compassion and understanding and makes complex subjects real for the layman. He sprinkles just enough gossip and humor to keep any reader riveted to a brilliant storyline. He educates without preaching and entertains without malice. He funnels genius and opens your thinking, while giving you an appreciation for the work of so many great and not so great people. Read this book you will not regret it.

I cannot believe how well Bryson brings details of history to light while keeping the prose entertaining. This is easily THE best nonfiction piece I have ever encountered. If you have never experienced Bryson's work, start here.

I've read a LOT of science books and journals, but none since perhaps Carl Sagan's 'Cosmos' was this entertaining -and- informative. A must read!