I have listened to the first part of this interesting book yet. The book is not trying to explain theroies from scientific viewpoint, but to tell a story about the order and why and how part of these important inventions. I think it is one of the bests in explaining and telling all the history with the details of the consequences of theories and the events in lives of some important scientists. Besides these, the funny style is only a plus. It should be read and, thanks to Audible, listened by everyone who is engaged with science and techonology. If you want to know why and how important inventions happaned, and draw conclusions from why some of funny attempts of science have turned to be important discoveries, you will not be disappointed.

This book is not all that bad save for the constant and, for the most part, failed attempts at humor. What is bad, is the narration. The English accent really starts to grate after a while and the horrible mispronunciation is the worst I have ever heard. This book is not worth two credits.

If you are of the inquisitive type, you will adore this book; very well written and easy to follow. The format from beginning to end leaves you with a sincere sense of perspective. I would highly recommend this title.

Sorry, didn't enjoy it. I've read other books of his and enjoyed them but I think his style is beginning to wear a bit thin.

Better get abriged version, it was read by professor Bryson, much better narrator. The unaridged version has way too many details.

An absolute marathon listen … but if you have the patience to slog through it, this book has the potential to dramatically change the way you comprehend the world and your place in it. Loved the line about how similar humans and bananas really are…

How truly puny we really are. This book will change your perspective on your place in the universe.

The most interesting book ever.

Enjoy it, wish it were longer...

Bryson starts off with a good idea--write a history of earth and science highlighting the novel and the curious. He doesn't just do this for important historical events, but for everything. Listening becomes painfully tedious. It descends into a rant about how Bryson views the world and history, but without any theories. Imagine reading AJP Taylor for the details without any larger theory holding it together. The print version you can skim, an abridged version get the highlights, but with this version there is no escaping the boredom.