Publication Date: 7 March 2024

The Blurb

Birds sing. Bees dance. Wolves howl. But we are the ones who tell stories.

Since the beginning, humans have created stories about the universe. From early mythology to modern-day science, we have always been curious to know more, yet 95 percent of the world “out there” remains a mystery. What will we believe tomorrow?

Marion Dane Bauer’s glowing poetry combines with Hari & Deepti’s luminously intricate cut-paper illustrations, to celebrate our long and ever-changing journey to understand the universe. In a comprehensive afterword, the author charts formative contributions to the study of the universe by Western and non-Western civilizations over the centuries.

The Review

A celebration of curiosity, imagination, and the pursuit of knowledge.

The lyrical poetry is utterly captivating, drawing us into the history and mystery of the cosmos, and how our understanding of it has changed over time. With each changing narrative about the universe we live in, Marion skilfully weaves together themes of curiosity, wonder, and the human desire to understand the universe’s vastness. It enables us to explore complex scientific concepts in a thought-provoking, yet accessible manner, while evoking a sense of awe and reverence for the natural world and our place within it.

Breath-taking cut-paper illustrations, full of intricate details and vibrant colours, bring the beauty and complexity of the universe to life, from swirling galaxies to microscopic atoms. Hari & Deepti create a visual narrative that echoes and enhances the scientific stories being told on each page.

Once I could tear myself away from the stunning artwork and storytelling, I was engrossed by the comprehensive afterword. This provides valuable context for budding scientists and storytellers eager to delve deeper into both Western and non-Western civilizations studies of the universe, and offers a rich tapestry of perspectives and insights into our scientific beliefs today. It leaves me wondering what the next chapter in the story of our universe will be.

Huge thanks to Walker Studio for sending me a finished copy.