The Breath of the Gods

The History and Future of the Wind

By: Simon Winchester

Narrated by: Simon Winchester

New York Times bestselling author Simon Winchester returns with a thought-provoking history of the wind, written in his edifying and entertaining style.

What is going on with our atmosphere? The headlines are filled with news of devastating hurricanes, murderous tornadoes, and cataclysmic fires affecting large swaths of America. Gale force advisories are issued on a regular basis by the National Weather Service.

In 2022, a report was released by atmospheric scientists at the University of Northern Illinois, warning that winds—the force at the center of all these dangerous natural events—are expected to steadily increase in the years ahead, strengthening in power, speed, and frequency.

While this prediction worried the insurance industry, governmental leaders, scientists, and conscientious citizens, one particular segment of society received it with unbridled enthusiasm. To the energy industry, rising wind strength and speeds as an unalloyed boon for humankind—a vital source of clean and “safe” power.

Between these two poles—wind as a malevolent force, and wind as savior of our planet—lies a world of fascination, history, literature, science, poetry, and engineering which Simon Winchester explores with the curiosity and vigor that are the hallmarks of his bestselling works. In The Breath of the Gods, he explains how wind plays a part in our everyday lives, from airplane or car travel to the “natural disasters” that are becoming more frequent and regular.

The Breath of the Gods is an urgently-needed portrait across time of that unseen force—unseen but not unfelt—that respects no national borders and no vessel or structure in its path. Wind, the movement of the air, is seen by so many as a heavenly creation and generally a thing of essential goodness. But when it flexes its invisible muscles, all should take care and be very afraid.

Supplemental enhancement PDF accompanies the audiobook.

Another hit

Love Simon Winchester and his books. Just so well done. Excellent book. Who would think the wind would be interesting but he makes it so.

Another immensely interesting book

Once again we are treated to several wonderful stories that only Simon Winchester can write. Who knew so many marvelous stories could from Wind! The author's narration adds so much to the enjoyment.

Another win for Mr Winchester!

Another wonderful experience . Informative and entertaining !!! We take the wind for granted but no more. Thank you!

Informative and interesting

I enjoy learning about weather and the processes that make it. This book captured my imagination in a way factual books don’t always do.

Wonderful! I wasn’t even aware of how much I didn’t know about wind!

Great insight, I learned a lot about wind and all that’s related to it. Just on one slightly negative note… everyone has their own voice and you can’t change it, yet his rattle voice at times makes it difficult to listen and follow along.