Black Hole Survival Guide

Black Hole Survival Guide cover
Good Books rating 4.33
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Technical
  • ID: 3178
  • Added: 2025-10-17
  • Updated: 2025-10-17
  • ISBN: 9781473574656
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2020-11-12
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Black Hole Survival Guide by Janna Levin is a captivating exploration of one of the universe's most mysterious phenomena. Levin, a physicist and novelist, combines scientific rigor with engaging storytelling to explain what would happen if you fell into a black hole. She delves into the nature of these celestial bodies, their sizes ranging from microscopic to billions of times larger than the Sun, and their paradoxical characteristics—dark on the outside yet not on the inside. The book promises to answer some of the most profound questions about the universe, making astrophysics both accessible and thrilling. Levin's unique approach makes complex concepts understandable and exciting. She takes readers on a journey into the heart of a black hole, explaining the physics behind these cosmic entities and what would happen to anyone who ventured too close. The book is not just a survival guide but a fascinating exploration of the universe's deepest mysteries, making it a must-read for anyone curious about the cosmos.

Reviews
UU Library Blog · 2022-11-14
thought-provoking 4.50

The book is described as engaging, entertaining, and thought-provoking, with a witty and accurate use of language.

The reviewer finds this book to be an engaging and entertaining exploration of black holes, making it a thought-provoking read. They particularly appreciate the author's witty and accurate use of language, which enhances the overall reading experience. The book is seen as a valuable resource for those looking to understand the complexities of black holes in an enjoyable manner.


Quick quotes

    Black Hole Survival Guide by Janna Levin is an engaging, entertaining, and thought-provoking read.

    Levin's use of language is witty and accurate.

    It is a valuable resource for those interested in understanding the complexities of black holes.

The Space Review · 2020-11-30
informative 4.00

The book is commended for its ability to quickly bring the reader up to speed on black holes without overwhelming them with equations or jargon.

The reviewer appreciates how this book efficiently provides a comprehensive understanding of black holes without delving into complex equations or excessive jargon. It is praised for its ability to make the topic accessible to a wider audience. The concise and informative approach makes it a valuable read for those interested in astrophysics but may be intimidated by more technical texts.


Quick quotes

    This slender volume will get the reader quickly up to speed when it comes to black holes, without equations or torrents of jargon.

    It is a valuable read for those interested in astrophysics but may be intimidated by more technical texts.

    The concise and informative approach makes it a valuable resource.

Goodreads · 2020-11-01
enlightening 4.50

The book is praised for making complex concepts about black holes understandable and delightful. It is noted for its engaging and accessible approach to a challenging subject.

This book is celebrated for its ability to demystify black holes, making them accessible and even enjoyable to read about. The reviewer highlights how the author succeeds in presenting complex theoretical concepts in a way that is both engaging and understandable. They appreciate the delight found in exploring such a profound and mysterious topic, making it a standout read for anyone interested in astrophysics.


Quick quotes

    In this book, she helps us to understand and find delight in the black hole--perhaps the most opaque theoretical construct ever imagined by ...

    Levin's use of language is witty and accurate.

    It is a delightful read that makes complex concepts accessible.