A Short History of Nearly Everything

In Bryson’s introduction, he states that one of his intentions with this book is to give readers science that is accessible. Does he achieve this goal?

In Bryson’s introduction, he states that one of his intentions for writing the book was because he wanted to understand the oldest, biggest questions in the universe. Does he succeed at this?

Bryson states that he isn’t a scientist. Considering his many personal opinions that are scattered throughout the pages, does Bryson’s lack of a scientific background help or hinder the narrative? 

Could Bryson’s book be used as a scientific textbook in a classroom? Why or why not?

Bryson makes an argument in the last chapter of the book. What is that argument, and how does it affect the reading of the previous chapters?

Which of Bryson’s accounts of famous scientists was the most interesting to you, and why? 

Does Bryson’s background as a journalist help or hinder the scientific subject matter? 

Which facts in the book most surprised you? Offer five examples of things you were startled to learn and include why you were taken aback by them.