Cosmos

by Carl Sagan
Cosmos cover
Good Books rating 4.44
Nonfiction
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Waterstones
Paperback • £12.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 3169
  • Added: 2025-10-17
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • Publisher: Random House Value Publishing
  • Published: 1995-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Cosmos is a magnificent overview of the past, present, and future of science, tracing today's knowledge and scientific methods to their historical roots. Brilliant and provocative, it offers a unique perspective on the universe and our place within it. Written by a renowned astrophysicist, Cosmos is not just a book about science; it's a celebration of human curiosity and the quest for understanding. It combines stunning visuals with engaging narratives, making complex scientific concepts accessible and captivating to readers of all backgrounds.

Reviews
Reddit - r/books · 2023-11-22
amazing 4.50

This Reddit user shares their positive experience re-reading Cosmos, finding it still amazing and enjoyable both as a book and in its movie adaptation.

The reviewer, after re-reading the book, finds it just as captivating as the first time. They appreciate how both the book and its movie adaptation can be enjoyed separately, highlighting Sagan's storytelling prowess and the timeless appeal of the content.

Quick quotes

    I recently re-read this and it is still amazing.

sheseeksnonfiction.blog · 2020-08-09
timeless 4.50

This review highlights how Cosmos beautifully intertwines the stories of civilization and modern science, showcasing Sagan's ability to make complex concepts accessible.

The reviewer praises Sagan's timeless work, emphasizing how the book seamlessly blends the history of civilization with scientific discoveries. They find the narrative compelling and accessible, making it a must-read for anyone interested in science and humanity's place in the universe.

Quick quotes

    Sagan's timeless illustrated book, Cosmos, demonstrates beautifully how the stories of civilization and modern science are intertwined.

Fernweh · Amy · 2017-08-23
comprehensive 4.25

The book encompasses the whole of human existence and the universe, with a focus on science. It is noted for its comprehensive and well-written exploration of these topics.

Amy was impressed by the book's broad scope, which encompasses the entirety of human existence and the universe. They found the focus on science to be particularly engaging and well-presented. The reviewer appreciates the book's comprehensive exploration of these topics, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in the intersection of science, history, and philosophy. They highlight the book's ability to make complex topics accessible and engaging, making it a must-read for both scientists and laypeople. The well-written narrative and clear presentation of scientific concepts are particularly noted, making the book a standout in the field of science communication.

Quick quotes

    In this book, Sagan encompasses the whole of human existence and the universe, with a focus on science.

    The material in the book is also very well written and well presented.

    The book is noted for its comprehensive and well-written exploration of these topics.

The Guardian · 2012-03-26
compelling 4.50

This review praises Sagan's masterful storytelling in explaining the science of the universe, making it the most compelling story of humanity's scientific journey.

The reviewer highlights Sagan's exceptional ability to weave hard science into a narrative that is both engaging and accessible. They emphasize how the book stands out as a pinnacle of science writing, making complex concepts understandable for all readers.

Quick quotes

    The most compelling story of how humanity managed to unravel the science of the universe.

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