While “A Complete Guide To Absolutely Everything (Abridged)” by Hannah Fry and Adam Rutherford might not literally cover absolutely everything, it offers a fascinating journey through various scientific and mathematical concepts. This guide delves into the book’s strengths and weaknesses, providing a comprehensive overview for potential readers.
The subtitle, “Adventures in Math and Science,” offers a more accurate glimpse into the book’s content. Instead of a chronological or exhaustive account, the book presents a series of essays exploring diverse topics. These range from the age of the universe and the history of time measurement to cognitive biases and the science of emotions. Fry and Rutherford blend historical context, philosophical insights, scientific explanations, and pop culture references to create an engaging and accessible narrative.
One of the book’s strengths lies in its ability to introduce readers to a wide array of interesting subjects. It serves as a primer for those seeking to expand their knowledge in science and mathematics. The authors incorporate delightful anecdotes and lesser-known facts, such as Charles Darwin’s third work on evolutionary theory, “The Expression of Emotion in Man and Animals.” The book also references significant scientific contributions, both familiar and obscure, providing a rich learning experience.
However, the book’s organization and writing style might not appeal to all readers. The structure can feel meandering and unfocused, with topics shifting abruptly. The conversational tone, while intended to be approachable, may come across as frenetic for some. Reading an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) can sometimes present challenges in formatting, such as sidebars disrupting the flow of the main text. These issues can be distracting and detract from the overall reading experience.
It’s important to acknowledge that any book attempting to cover such a broad scope is prone to inaccuracies. While Fry is a mathematician and Rutherford a geneticist, they venture into complex areas like radiological dating and the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. In such cases, oversimplifications or misconceptions can creep in, as exemplified by the incorrect explanation of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle.
Despite these drawbacks, “A Complete Guide to Absolutely Everything (Abridged)” has the potential to resonate with many readers. Its ability to introduce diverse and captivating topics can spark further exploration through more specialized books. While the organization and writing style may not suit everyone’s taste, the book’s breadth of knowledge and engaging anecdotes make it a worthwhile read for those seeking a general overview of science and mathematics. The book serves as an accessible entry point into complex subjects, encouraging readers to delve deeper into areas that pique their interest.
In conclusion, “A Complete Guide to Absolutely Everything (Abridged)” is a mixed bag. It’s not truly a guide to absolutely everything, but rather a collection of interesting essays on science and math. It may be best suited for readers who enjoy a conversational style and are looking for an introduction to a variety of topics, rather than a comprehensive or deeply researched analysis.
