A Short History of Nearly Everything Re-read

I read this book 5 years ago and it was just as awesome this time. The progress of science is so fantastic and Bryson makes it an entertaining read. This time I was struck by how unprepared and surprised we would be should an asteroid be heading our way. It's also surprising how many myths surround the pursuit of facts. I particularly loved how Bryson pointed out simple, but profound, truths. First, there's the notion that for the past 3.8 billion years, every one of my pertinent ancestors reproduced. Next, that life has evolved exactly one species that is capable of appreciating the extent, fragility and magnificence of life itself. Crazily enough, it's the same species that could wipe it all out. How marvelous!

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