100,000+ Books, Games & Puzzles in-stock πŸ‡³πŸ‡Ώ

Auckland Bookstore open Sunday until 5pm! πŸŽ‰

A Brief Welcome to the Universe

A Pocket-Sized Tour
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
A Brief Welcome to the Universe offers an accessible journey through the cosmos, exploring key concepts and questions in astrophysics. Written by renowned astrophysicists, the book delves into topics like black holes, dark matter, and the possibility of life beyond Earth, making complex scientific ideas digestible and intriguing for curious readers. Perfectly blending education with wonder, it serves as an enlightening introduction to the universe's most fascinating mysteries.
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$4400

International Supplier

This title is in-stock with overseas suppliers. While it is not available locally, we fly books in weekly from the US and UK to our Auckland warehouse for immediate dispatch.

AVAILABLE WITH SUPPLIER Ships from our Auckland warehouse within 2-3 weeks

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you're fascinated by the cosmos and want to explore the wonders of the universe through the insights of renowned astrophysicists. It's perfect for those who appreciate a compelling mix of education and entertainment, presented in an accessible and engaging manner. If you're keen to expand your understanding of complex scientific concepts without getting lost in jargon, you'll likely enjoy this exploration of the vastness of space.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A Brief Welcome to the Universe offers a breathtaking tour of the cosmos, from planets, stars, and galaxies to black holes and time loops. Bestselling authors and acclaimed astrophysicists Neil deGrasse Tyson, Michael A. Strauss, and J. Richard Gott take readers on an unforgettable journey of exploration to reveal how our universe actually works.

Propelling you from our home solar system to the outermost frontiers of space, this book builds your cosmic insight and perspective through a marvellously entertaining narrative. How do stars live and die? What are the prospects of intelligent life elsewhere in the universe? How did the universe begin? Why is it expanding and accelerating? Is our universe alone or part of an infinite multiverse? Exploring these and many other questions, this pocket-friendly book is your passport into the wonders of our evolving cosmos.

β€˜Riveting questions fielded by three top astrophysicists in engaging style, with great illustrations and just a handful of equations. They may just have produced the best book about the universe in the universe.’ - New Scientist

β€˜As citizens of the cosmos, we are duty bound to explore it. So opine astrophysicists Neil deGrasse Tyson, Michael Struass, and Richard Gott, guides on this bracing expedition through dusty galactic hinterlands and the vast theoretical vistas of Albert Einstein's work.’ - Nature

β€˜All three [authors] write in informal, conversational tones, and the text is sprinkled with genuinely funny non sequiturs, such as a brief rumination on dwarfs versus dwarves and commentary on English-speaking aliens in Star Trek. . . . What the book does very well is to present not just what we know about the universe but how we know it.’ - Science

β€˜This is an important book. Part fascinating story, part reference book, and part astrophysical textbook, the work presents an information-rich summary of the current state of human knowledge of the cosmos. . . . Reading this book, which packages many entertaining treatments of concepts in astronomy and astrophysics, will make you a whole lot smarter about how the universe works. It is highly recommended.’ - David Eicher, Astronomy.com

β€˜Reading through is akin to receiving a private museum tour from an expert scientist...The authors present challenging content in accessible prose as they lead readers from our solar system to the edge of the visible universe, getting into the how and the what of just about everything there is to know about the cosmos...As Tyson, Strauss, and Gott explain the cutting-edge physics of multiverses, superstring theory, M-theory, and the benefits of colonising space, even seasoned science readers will learn something new.’ - Publishers Weekly

β€˜An accessible and comprehensive overview of our universe by three eminent astrophysicists...An entertaining introduction to astronomy.’ - Kirkus Reviews

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

A Brief Welcome to the Universe is praised for its engaging and accessible exploration of the cosmos, with readers appreciating how it breaks down complex scientific concepts into digestible information. Many reviews highlight the authors' ability to make astrophysics entertaining and comprehensible for readers, regardless of their previous exposure to the subject. The collaborative writing style of Strauss, Gott, and Tyson is often noted for its clarity and humour, making the book both an informative and enjoyable read.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780691219943

Publisher: Princeton University Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 07 September 2021

Country: United States

Imprint: Princeton University Press

Illustration: 10 b/w illus.

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Width: 108.0mm

Height: 178.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 248

About the Author

Neil deGrasse Tyson is director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History and the author of many books, including Astrophysics for People in a Hurry. Twitter @neiltyson Michael A. Strauss is professor of astrophysical sciences at Princeton University. J. Richard Gott is professor emeritus of astrophysical sciences at Princeton. Twitter @JRichardGott

Also by J. Richard Gott

View all
  • Welcome to the Universe in 3D
    Journey into the vast depths of the observable universe by visualising the most spectacular images in astronomy in stereoscopic 3D. Welcome to the Universe in 3D takes you on a grand tour of the observable universe, guiding you through the most spectacular sights in the cosmos - in breathtaking 3D. Presenting a rich array of stereoscopic colour images, which can...
    Hardback
    $4499
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Welcome to the Universe
    A New York Times Bestseller Welcome to the Universe is a personal guided tour of the cosmos by three of today's leading astrophysicists. Inspired by the enormously popular introductory astronomy course that Neil deGrasse Tyson, Michael A. Strauss, and J. Richard Gott taught together at Princeton, this book covers it allβ€” from planets, stars, and galaxies to black holes, wormholes,...
    Hardback
    $13000
    Available
    Ships in 2-3 weeks
  • Welcome to the Universe
    Here is the essential companion to Welcome to the Universe, a New York Times bestseller that was inspired by the enormously popular introductory astronomy course for non-science majors, which Neil deGrasse Tyson, Michael A. Strauss, and J. Richard Gott taught together at Princeton. This problem book features more than one hundred problems and exercises used in the original course, ideal...
    Paperback
    $14000
    Available
    Ships in 2-3 weeks

Also by Michael A. Strauss

View all
  • Welcome to the Universe in 3D
    Journey into the vast depths of the observable universe by visualising the most spectacular images in astronomy in stereoscopic 3D. Welcome to the Universe in 3D takes you on a grand tour of the observable universe, guiding you through the most spectacular sights in the cosmos - in breathtaking 3D. Presenting a rich array of stereoscopic colour images, which can...
    Hardback
    $4499
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Welcome to the Universe
    A New York Times Bestseller Welcome to the Universe is a personal guided tour of the cosmos by three of today's leading astrophysicists. Inspired by the enormously popular introductory astronomy course that Neil deGrasse Tyson, Michael A. Strauss, and J. Richard Gott taught together at Princeton, this book covers it allβ€” from planets, stars, and galaxies to black holes, wormholes,...
    Hardback
    $13000
    Available
    Ships in 2-3 weeks
  • Welcome to the Universe
    Here is the essential companion to Welcome to the Universe, a New York Times bestseller that was inspired by the enormously popular introductory astronomy course for non-science majors, which Neil deGrasse Tyson, Michael A. Strauss, and J. Richard Gott taught together at Princeton. This problem book features more than one hundred problems and exercises used in the original course, ideal...
    Paperback
    $14000
    Available
    Ships in 2-3 weeks

Also by Neil deGrasse Tyson

View all
  • Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry
    Dive into the cosmic mysteries with the engaging and enlightening guide, Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry, written by renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. Perfect for inquisitive minds and young readers with a thirst for knowledge, this book is an adaptation of Tyson’s bestselling work, Astrophysics for People in a Hurry, specially tailored to spark the imagination and curiosity...
    Paperback
    $2100
    Elsewhere:
    $2299
    Available
    Ships in 3-4 weeks
  • Astrophysics for People in a Hurry
    There's no better guide through mind-expanding questions such as what the nature of space and time is, how we fit within the universe, and how the universe fits within us than Neil deGrasse Tyson. But today, few of us have time to contemplate the cosmos. So Tyson brings the universe down to Earth succinctly and clearly, with sparkling wit, in...
    Hardback
    $3300
    Elsewhere:
    $3599
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Starry Messenger
    Starry Messenger by Neil deGrasse Tyson takes readers on a compelling journey through the cosmos, offering profound insights into the very fabric of our civilisation. With his characteristic blend of wit, wisdom, and warmth, Tyson explores how a cosmic perspective can profoundly alter our understanding of contemporary issues, from global conflicts to personal identity. In this thought-provoking book, Tyson, the...
    Paperback
    $2999
    Elsewhere:
    $3499
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Letters from an Astrophysicist
    Letters from an Astrophysicist by Neil deGrasse Tyson opens a portal into the mind of one of the most revered scientists of our time. This collection of heartfelt and insightful letters offers a profound exploration of some of the most intriguing questions about the universe. Each letter, whether addressed to students, prisoners, fellow scientists, or religious leaders, is met with...
    Paperback
    $2499
    Elsewhere:
    $2600
    Backorder
    Ships mid August
  • Death by Black Hole
    Loyal readers of the monthly Universe essays in Natural History magazine have long recognised Neil deGrasse Tyson's talent for guiding them through the mysteries of the cosmos with clarity and enthusiasm. Bringing together more than forty of Tyson's favourite essays, Death by Black Hole explores a myriad of cosmic topics, from what it would be like to be inside a...
    Paperback
    $2700
    Elsewhere:
    $2999
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Welcome to the Universe
    Here is the essential companion to Welcome to the Universe, a New York Times bestseller that was inspired by the enormously popular introductory astronomy course for non-science majors, which Neil deGrasse Tyson, Michael A. Strauss, and J. Richard Gott taught together at Princeton. This problem book features more than one hundred problems and exercises used in the original course, ideal...
    Paperback
    $14000
    Available
    Ships in 2-3 weeks
  • Welcome to the Universe
    A New York Times Bestseller Welcome to the Universe is a personal guided tour of the cosmos by three of today's leading astrophysicists. Inspired by the enormously popular introductory astronomy course that Neil deGrasse Tyson, Michael A. Strauss, and J. Richard Gott taught together at Princeton, this book covers it allβ€” from planets, stars, and galaxies to black holes, wormholes,...
    Hardback
    $13000
    Available
    Ships in 2-3 weeks
  • Space Chronicles
    America's space program is at a turning point. After decades of global primacy, NASA has ended the space-shuttle program, cutting off its access to space. No astronauts will be launched in an American craft, from American soil, until the 2020s, and NASA may soon find itself eclipsed by other countries' space programs. With his signature wit and thought-provoking insights, Neil...
    Paperback
    $3199
    Available
    Ships in 3-4 weeks
  • Accessory to War
    An exploration of the age-old complicity between skywatchers and warfighters, from the best-selling author of Astrophysics for People in a Hurry. In this fascinating foray into the millennia-long relationship between science and military power, acclaimed astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson and writer Avis Lang examine how the methods and tools of astrophysics have been enlisted in the service of war. β€œThe...
    Hardback
    $5699
    Available
    Ships in 3-4 weeks
  • Welcome to the Universe in 3D
    Journey into the vast depths of the observable universe by visualising the most spectacular images in astronomy in stereoscopic 3D. Welcome to the Universe in 3D takes you on a grand tour of the observable universe, guiding you through the most spectacular sights in the cosmos - in breathtaking 3D. Presenting a rich array of stereoscopic colour images, which can...
    Hardback
    $4499
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Accessory to War
    In this far-reaching foray into the millennia-long relationship between science and military power, acclaimed astrophysicist and author of Astrophysics for People in a Hurry, Neil deGrasse Tyson, and Avis Lang examine how the methods and tools of astrophysics have been enlisted in the service of war. Spanning early celestial navigation to satellite-enabled warfare, Accessory to War is a richly researched...
    Paperback
    $3799
    Available
    Ships in 3-4 weeks
  • Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry
    America’s most celebrated astrophysicist invites young readers to explore the mysteries of the universe. Neil deGrasse Tyson has become one of the most recognisable and respected figures in science, beloved by curious kids. In this adaptation of his #1 New York Times bestseller Astrophysics for People in a Hurry, Tyson hasβ€”for the first timeβ€”served up the universe in a handy,...
    Hardback
    $2999
    Elsewhere:
    $3399
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow

More from Science & Nature

View all
  • Murder Under the Mistletoe
    BOOK 4 IN THE BESTSELLING CANON CLEMENT MYSTERY SERIES 'The best of the new cosy crime writers' Daily Telegraph 'You'll want to take a front row pew in Champton while this delicious series unfolds' Janice Hallett It is Christmas Day and at Champton Rectory, Canon Daniel Clement and his mother Audrey are joined by the residents and guests of the...
    Paperback
    $2799
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • John and Paul
    THE SUNDAY TIMES AND NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER LONGLISTED FOR THE BAILLIE GIFFORD PRIZE FOR NON-FICTION 'A triumph.' Deborah Levy, New Statesman 'Tremendous.' Alwyn Turner, The Times 'Revelatory.' Simon Schama, Financial Times 'The gold standard of Beatles books.' Anthony Quinn, Observer 'As enthralling and astonishing as their music.' Jon Dennis, Sunday Telegraph 'A masterpiece.' Dylan Jones, Evening Standard '[Ian Leslie]...
    Paperback
    $2800
    Elsewhere:
    $3299
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Raising Hare
    THE INSTANT SUNDAY TIMES AND NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER SHORTLISTED FOR THE WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR NON-FICTION 2025 SHORTLISTED FOR WATERSTONES BOOK OF THE YEAR 2024 SHORTLISTED FOR THE HATCHARDS AND BIOGRAPHERS' CLUB FIRST BIOGRAPHY PRIZE A BOOK OF THE YEAR FOR THE HAY FESTIVAL, SUNDAY TIMES, THE TIMES, FINANCIAL TIMES, SPECTATOR AND iNEWS 'A beautiful book' - ANGELINA JOLIE 'I...
    Paperback
    $2400
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • What If? 10th Anniversary Edition
    CELEBRATING TEN YEARS OF THE MILLION-SELLING POP SCIENCE CLASSIC WITH A SPECIAL EDITION. THIS IS WHAT IF? . . . x10. THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER 'Nerd royalty' β€” BEN GOLDACRE 'Totally brilliant' β€” TIM HARFORD 'Required reading across the world' β€” NEW YORK TIMES From the creator of the wildly popular xkcd.com, experience hilarious and informative answers to important questions...
    Hardback
    $4200
    Elsewhere:
    $5000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Nuclear War
    The Sunday Times bestselling non-fiction thriller that has to be read to be believed. Baillie Gifford shortlisted, a favourite of Steven Bartlett, with an average reader rating of 4.6, sure to be a mass-market hit. Up to now, no one outside of official circles has known exactly what would happen if a rogue state launched a nuclear missile at the...
    Paperback
    $2500
    Elsewhere:
    $2800
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Anxious Generation
    A powerful argument for reclaiming childhoodβ€”and all human relationshipsβ€”from the online world, from the influential social psychologist and international bestselling author. Jonathan Haidt has spent his career speaking truth and wisdom in some of the most difficult spacesβ€”communities polarised by politics and religion, campuses battling culture wars, and now the mental health emergency hitting teenagers today in many countries around...
    Paperback
    $2299
    Elsewhere:
    $3000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Prisoners of Geography
    Prisoners of Geography looks at the past, present, and future to offer crucial insights into one of the major factors that determine world history – because if you don’t know geography, you’ll never have the full picture. Originally published in 2015, this completely revised and updated edition brings it up to date with the events and trends of the past...
    Paperback
    $2899
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Booker Prize
    Orbital
    Winner of the Booker Prize 2024. Chair of the judges, Edmund de Waal, describes the winner as 'a book about a wounded world' adding that the panel's 'unanimity about Orbital recognises its beauty and ambition'. Life on our planet as you've never seen it before. A team of astronauts in the International Space Station collect meteorological data, conduct scientific experiments...
    Paperback
    $2200
    Elsewhere:
    $2600
    (2)
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Diddly Squat: Home to Roost
    It's been another memorable year on Diddly Squat Farm - will the chickens finally come home to roost? Welcome back to Clarkson's Farm. The spring crop failed. Farming sheep, pigs, and cows was hardly more lucrative (better off breeding ostriches...) But in the face of uncooperative weather, bureaucracy, and the world's persistent refusal to recognise his genius, our hero's not...
    Paperback
    $2600
    Elsewhere:
    $3000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Place of Tides
    To save the world, we have to start somewhere. One afternoon many years ago, James Rebanks met an old woman on a remote Norwegian island. She lived and worked alone on a tiny rocky outcrop, caring for wild ducks and gathering their down. Hers was a centuries-old trade that had once made men and women rich, but had long been...
    Paperback
    $3000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Ultra-Processed People
    Launching the runaway bestseller with ambitions to be the biggest non-fiction paperback of the year IT'S NOT YOU. IT'S THE FOOD. "If you only read one diet or nutrition book in your life, make it this one" - Bee Wilson "You've got to get this book in your life . . . Completely compelling . . . Read a page...
    Paperback
    $2500
    Elsewhere:
    $2800
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Island of Missing Trees
    The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak is a captivating and poignant novel that delves into the intertwined lives of two star-crossed lovers in war-torn Cyprus and their enduring legacy decades later. This Sunday Times bestselling novel intricately weaves themes of love, loss, and identity amidst a backdrop of cultural and historical turmoil. Set in 1974 on the island...
    Paperback
    $2300
    Elsewhere:
    $2600
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 80,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Bookstore

Auckland Bookstore

We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.