I read this book for two reasons. The first reason is that I have read the adult version of this book: Astrophysics for people in a hurry (2017) and found it thoroughly educational and enjoyable. It was easy to read and to understand and I found that this version explained complex astronomy and physics principles in fun ways that helped to keep the reader engaged. So, I was excited to see that the author had brought out a version for young readers. Secondly, I found out that the young people’s version had been shortlisted for the Royal Society Young People’s Book Award. I had previously heard of the Royal Society (being a science nerd finally paid off) but was unaware they had prizes for young children’s books to encourage literacy and an interest in STEM.

The book covers subjects beginning from basic physics to the bigger questions of space and time. It seeks to break down the complex mysteries of the nature of the universe into easy-to-understand pieces. It is a great book to start off on your own educational science adventures, and even though it is marketed for young people, it is a great read for adults (or fun slightly older young people) as well. Neil deGrasse Tyson has the ability to explain the intricacies of astrophysics in a fun and straightforward way (think: Astrophysics for Dummies). Even if you are not STEM minded, this book is an easy read and will keep you and the children entertained.