I think this is an enjoyable read. Bill surveys many different aspects of current scientific thinking in an entertaining and readable manner. He is equally able to convey the broad gist of the ideas under discussion as well as provide many interesting notes on the eccentricities of the people who first had those ideas. It's also interesting to read about the myriad ways that natural cataclysms may wipe out all life on earth, though it may have more emphasis in this book than I'd normally be inclined to read. It feels like a justification by Bill to the reader for why we should care about what he is telling us.
Sadly, it's evident in certain areas - at least in those parts I have prior knowledge - that Bill was repeating a notion or an idea he didn't fully understand. The book would have much better had Bill collaborated with scientists instead of asking for input. Yet, I would highly recommend it for those who have no background in science
Overall, this was an enjoyable read even on the second time through. Bill's wit pops onto the page regularly enough to liven up a rather dry topic (everything from the beginning to now). I give him full credit for taking the time to put some rather detailed concepts in layman's language for all to read and enjoy.
