Isaac Asimov's Guide to Earth and Space

This is a very well-written book, suitable for all ages. Asimov is an entertaining teacher of the basic facts about Earth and space (e.g., the Earth is round, it rotates about its own axis, it revolves around the Sun). But, what is even more important, he is a master at describing the thought processes of the various philosophers and scientists who established these facts in the face of traditional beliefs (e.g., the Earth is flat, it is unmoving, the Sun goes round the Earth). It is thus a wonderful book for anyone who would like to learn how to determine the truth in this age of fundamentalism and conflicting claims posted on the Web and propagated by e-mails. The desire and the ability to think clearly and logically have always been rare commodities -- and have become even more uncommon today, even in technologically advanced communities such as the USA. The book costs less than $7, which makes it a great stocking stuffer. But it is worth more than $70, or even $700.

Asimov's writing is in tip top form -- clear,straightforward, and with his sense of wit that is always present. However, some of the questions are pretty elementary for most of his fans -- e.g., why does the moon go through phases, what is the future of our sun, what are tides... Important questions, to be sure, but, not as engaging on his writings concerning the beginning of the universe, the atom, or measurements.

I first read this book at about age 35. Then lent it to my 66-year-old father. Just as was I unable, so, too, was he unable to put it down for more than a meditative moment to complicate Asimov's musings.After Dad read it I loaned it to my older son, then aged 12. He had the same addiction as Dad and I.The three of us are not prone to dwell on science, history, or anything of great consequence often, but we still frequently discuss topics first brought to our attention by probably the greatest, and certainly one of the most prolific and diverse writers in history.I challenge any reader to not contemplate many of the thoughts expressed by Asimov in this fascinating and intriguing book.Asimov and Hawking were probably the two most intelligent science writers of the 20th Century. Asimov alone, however, also was a skilled writer of history and fiction.

This is the quick reference handbook for our universe, written in simple and concise language (only 252 pages). It should be required reading in high school. Everyone should possess this knowledge. Read this book and see the big picture.

If you've ever looked up in wonder at the stars in the night sky, or puzzled over the origins of the Earth, this is the book for you. A fabulous journey through centuries of scientific curiosity and discovery that left me wishing for more!