Cover of A Short History of Nearly Everything

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A Short History of Nearly Everything

4.3 out of 5, from 1,049 ratings from Hardcover readers

Bryson sets out to understand how we know what we know about the universe, Earth and life, from the Big Bang to people, and tells the stories of the scientists who figured it out.

Facts last checked 2026-10-17

First published
2003
Pace
Medium
Length
Long
Pages
705
Format
Standalone

Read this if you want a funny, accessible tour of science and the people behind it.

Skip this if you want specialist depth in one field rather than a broad overview.

The feel

Content warnings

None noted yet.

Quick answers about A Short History of Nearly Everything

What is A Short History of Nearly Everything about?
Bryson sets out to understand how we know what we know about the universe, Earth and life, from the Big Bang to people, and tells the stories of the scientists who figured it out.
Who should read A Short History of Nearly Everything?
Read it if you want a funny, accessible tour of science and the people behind it. Skip it if you want specialist depth in one field rather than a broad overview.
How long and how fast is A Short History of Nearly Everything?
It is a medium-paced, long read of about 705 pages, first published in 2003.
Does A Short History of Nearly Everything have content warnings?
We have not noted any content warnings for this book yet.
Can I borrow A Short History of Nearly Everything for free?
Often, yes. Check Libby (OverDrive) to see whether your library lends A Short History of Nearly Everything; the borrow button above searches it for you.

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