4 stars

Overall, I enjoyed this book.

I picked up this audiobook from the library, like a true person in a hurry, to listen to in the car when traveling for work. I really enjoy learning about space and especially love books like this, written for people who aren’t astrophysicists. The chapters are pretty short and condensed, which are perfect for people in a hurry. The tone of the book is very engaging and combines poetic language, scientific fact, and humorous jokes to make a very interesting read.

The audiobook is narrated by Neil deGrasse Tyson. I don’t know if I ever picked up on it before, but Neil deGrasse Tyson has an incredibly soothing voice. Unfortunately, this soothing voice was a little too calming at times and I found myself zoning out while listening to the audiobook. It’s not that the book was boring at all. It was fantastically interesting. But that man has such a comforting voice, I just couldn’t grasp a lot of the information. Obviously this is not a criticism of the book, more of an observation. You have been warned.

I will also say that there are tons of facts thrown at you pretty quickly. It’s a lot to take in. For me, the audiobook didn’t work, because I learn better being able to see the words I’m reading. I can get away with listening to fiction and memoirs, but apparently astrophysics is a lot for me to take in while driving. Especially the numbers. I really blanked anytime a ridiculous number came up. It’s just one of those things I need to see in order to take in and understand. I think I’m going to find a physical copy of this book and reread it. I learned a lot, but I don’t think I could recall even half of what was in the book. Having said that, this book is still good enough that I already want to reread it.

It is a very good book with a very good mission, but I would recommend analyzing your learning style before getting the audiobook. If you’re like me and learn better visually, you might want to just stick to the physical book.