Books › The Magic of Reality
The Magic of Reality
272 pages
A visually stunning and intellectually exhilarating journey that replaces the magic of myth with the far more spectacular magic of scientific truth.
What it feels like
Reading this book feels like stepping into a brilliantly lit museum where the exhibits come alive to explain the universe. It moves at a brisk, engaging pace, seamlessly weaving the enchanting but flawed myths of our ancestors with the breathtaking, undeniable truths of science. The mood is one of expansive wonder, anchored by surreal, captivating illustrations that give the rational text a dreamlike texture. The prose is conversational and lucid, stripping away academic jargon to reveal the sheer poetry of physics, biology, and astronomy. It is a deeply optimistic and illuminating experience, perfect for curious minds of any age who want to feel grounded in reality while still being completely awestruck by its natural mechanics.
- Mood
- wondrous
- curious
- illuminating
- expansive
- Tone
- educational
- awe-struck
- rational
- accessible
- enthusiastic
- Pace
- brisk
- Themes
- the beauty of truth · myth versus reality · scientific discovery · interconnectedness of nature · wonder of the cosmos
- The writing
- Clear, conversational, and lucid, designed to demystify complex concepts without losing a sense of poetry.
- The arc
- Moves from the charming curiosity of ancient myths to the profound, awe-inspiring clarity of scientific understanding.
- Who it's for
- Curious minds of all ages who want to understand how the world works and appreciate the poetry of science.
About the book
What are things made of? What is the sun? Why is there night and day, winter and summer? Why do bad things happen? Are we alone?
Throughout history people all over the world have invented stories to answer profound questions such as these. Have you heard the tale of how the sun hatched out of an emu's egg? Or what about the great catfish that carries the world on its back? Has anyone ever told you that earthquakes are caused by a sneezing giant? These fantastical myths are fun - but what is the real answer to such questions?
The Magic of Reality, with its explanations of space, time, evolution and more, will inspire and amaze readers of all ages - young adults, adults, children, octogenarians. Teaming up with the renowned illustrator Dave McKean, Richard Dawkins answers all these questions and many more. In stunning words and pictures this book presents the real story of the world around us, taking us on an enthralling journey through scientific reality, and showing that it has an awe-inspiring beauty and thrilling magic which far exceed those of the ancient myths.
We encounter rainbows, our genetic ancestors, tsunamis, shooting stars, plants, animals, and an intriguing cast of characters in this extraordinary scientific voyage of discovery. Richard Dawkins and Dave McKean have created a dazzling celebration of our planet that will entertain and inform for years to come.
Description from Open Library.
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