A Brief History of Time

by Stephen Hawking
A Brief History of Time cover
Good Books rating 3.33
Science and Innovation
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 3166
  • Added: 2025-10-17
  • Updated: 2025-10-17
  • ISBN: 9780553175219
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 1988-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

A Brief History of Time takes readers on a journey through the cosmos, from the big bang to black holes, and beyond. Stephen Hawking masterfully explains complex theories of the universe, making them accessible to the general reader. The book begins with a review of the great theories of the cosmos from Newton to Einstein, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the secrets of space and time. Hawking's insights challenge our understanding of the universe and invite us to ponder the very nature of existence. This internationally acclaimed masterpiece not only delves into the scientific mysteries of the cosmos but also reflects on the philosophical implications of these discoveries. Hawking's clear and engaging writing style makes even the most abstract concepts understandable, offering a glimpse into the mind of one of the greatest scientific thinkers of our time. Whether you're a science enthusiast or a curious reader, this book promises to expand your horizons and inspire a sense of wonder about the universe.

Reviews
She Seeks Nonfiction · 2020-09-06
intriguing 3.00

The book is considered a bestseller but is often unread, suggesting it might be more popular as a status symbol than for its content. It's noted for its ambitious scope and Hawking's ability to simplify complex ideas.

This reviewer points out that while 'A Brief History of Time' is a bestseller, it's often purchased more for its prestige than its readability. They acknowledge Hawking's talent for breaking down complex scientific concepts into understandable ideas, but also note that the book's broad scope might leave some readers feeling overwhelmed. The reviewer suggests that the book is best appreciated in small doses, allowing readers to absorb its profound insights without feeling lost in the vastness of the universe it describes.

Quick quotes

    This book was a best seller, but it is also judged to be the most unread book of all time.

    In other words, many of the people who bought it probably didn't read it.

    Hawking's ability to simplify complex ideas is remarkable.

Reddit - r/80s · 2016-10-09
transformative 4.50

The book is praised for changing the reader's perspective on the universe and its workings. It's described as a life-changing read.

This Reddit user shares their transformative experience with 'A Brief History of Time.' They describe the book as life-changing, crediting it with altering their perspective on the universe and its complexities. The reviewer appreciates Hawking's ability to make abstract concepts tangible and relatable. They also mention that the book sparked a lasting interest in science and the mysteries of the cosmos. This reviewer highly recommends the book to anyone curious about the universe and our place in it.

Quick quotes

    This book absolutely changed my life when I read it.

    It completely changed my perspective on how everything in our universe works.

    It was about the most fascinating things you could ever hope to learn about.

The Guardian · 2005-09-27
critical 2.50

The book is criticized for being too brief, delivering too many ideas in too few pages. The reviewer suggests that the book's ambition outweighs its execution.

This reviewer from The Guardian finds that 'A Brief History of Time' suffers from its own ambition. They argue that Hawking tries to cover too much ground in too few pages, leaving readers with a whirlwind tour of the universe that can be hard to follow. While they appreciate Hawking's efforts to make complex ideas accessible, they feel that the book would benefit from more depth and explanation. The reviewer suggests that readers might need to supplement their reading with additional resources to fully grasp the concepts presented.

Quick quotes

    The problem with Hawking's book is that it was actually too brief: it delivered too many ideas in too few pages.

    I am sure that even the most dedicated reader will occasionally feel overwhelmed.

    The book's ambition outweighs its execution.

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