The Universe in Your Hand

A Journey Through Space, Time and Beyond

By: Christophe Galfard

Narrated by: Leighton Pugh

Length: 11 hrs and 41 mins

Publisher's summary

Imagine if The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy were a real, practical book about the mysteries of the universe....

The Universe in Your Hand takes us on a wonder-filled journey to the surface of our dying sun, shrinks us to the size of an atom and puts us in the deathly grip of distant black holes. Along the way you might come to understand, really understand, the mind-bending science that underpins modern life, from quantum mechanics to Einstein's theory of general relativity.

Through brilliant storytelling and humour rather than graphs and equations, internationally renowned astrophysicist Christophe Galfard has written an instant classic that brings the astonishing beauty of the universe to life - and takes us deep into questions about the beginning of time and the future of humanity.

©2019 Christophe Galfard (P)2019 Macmillan Digital Audio

Not for the faint hearted.

The author promises to carry the listener through, what to most, is rather complex. In my case he virtually delivers. I know that I will have to listen to the book again to give him the opportunity to completely fulfil his promise. That, will be a pleasure.

Very good introduction to the subject

An idiosyncratic approach to a complex subject that can sometimes be off putting. However if you can get past this it is an excellent listen for those with no or little understanding of the subject. It will also help those who are averse to complex mathematical proofs- there aren’t any. Recommend as a good entry to the subject.

One of a kind

The author assumes no prior knowledge, and brings the information directly to the reader by involving the reader within the discovery process. I have read over 50 titles on the array of subjects covered by this title, and can safely say that this is one of the best for those of us who have a great interest, but basic or no knowledge. The story takes the reader through a series of thought experiment adventures, where the reader’s mind is the active component. Inspirational use of analogies, with clear, concise language. The narrator is easy to listen to, and uses his intonation well. Throughly enjoyable and hugely informative, clearing up many confused questions I had accumulated from other titles.

At last

I have long wanted to understand, in layman’s terms, the evolution of discovery leading to present day theory of the universe. This audiobook has held my attention, spiked my curiosity and taken me on a journey that I’ll not forget. Though this book holds my personal record for the number of times I have scrolled back to listen again to what I have just heard, it has been the best read I have had for many years. Anyone wishing to gain a small understanding of what great scientific minds have conjured about our existence should read this. Great narration, thoroughly enjoyable.

Brilliant

I can’t pretend I understood it all but this book took me further than any other I have tried. Beautifully read too.

An epic adventure

Really enjoying this book would highly recommend. Great adventure and gets you visually involved in passing through the universe.

Just wow

What a hidden gem! I stumbled across this and wasn’t expecting too much but have been blown away. The way the author describes complex theory - and transports you right ‘into’ it - whilst actually helping you understand it, is phenomenal. It also helps hugely that the narrator has a voice like liquid butter. Great experience

Amazing

Amazing book which can satisfy the people who know enough but not enough. Brilliant book

Poor, simplistic, only for those who don’t have basic physics or maths

Some analogies are interesting, but most are contrived. When you have to explain, E= MC^2 E =energy, m=mass and C is the speed of light, Then you know this book is too simplistic.

Just fascinating

I love this book and have listened more than once. It is fascinating and eye opening. Some of the topics were so mind bending they gave me goosebumps!!! Brilliantly written and narrated to explain such complex facts, ideas and theories in an (almost) understandable way but I hear and learn more with each listen

Perfect for the interested beginner

I recently became interested in physics and cosmology and this was the perfect choice. I had to listen to some parts more than once but generally it would be good for someone without any knowledge in this area. I liked the way it’s woven into a kind of story and there is plenty of humour too!