For such a great topic, I am astounded how boring and densely written this book is. Something about it's narrative style is painfully dry. The way theFor such a great topic, I am astounded how boring and densely written this book is. Something about it's narrative style is painfully dry. The way the work is organized seems with clear logic however there is no perspective just blind facts, which is great for reference, but makes dry reading. It's clear that NDT and his partner need the flare of a producer to make their narrative more readable. I was disappointed by this one. ...more
This book is classic Sagan. Informed speculation. Sagan is a master of weaving science with the human experience and where this book excels is when heThis book is classic Sagan. Informed speculation. Sagan is a master of weaving science with the human experience and where this book excels is when he ties scientific discovery to human myth. However, like many works of science, it shows its age. His view of psychology, especially Mental illness, is a dated view. There's mulch else that is presented that has been surpassed. But that doesn't change worth of the work. Sagan's enterprising passion of humanity and life drips from the book. And its worth it for that alone. ...more
