120,000+ Books, Games & Puzzles in-stock πŸ‡³πŸ‡Ώ

Come visit us this weekend! Auckland Bookstore open 8:30am-5:00pm Sat & Sun πŸŽ‰

Letters from an Astrophysicist

4.06 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 8,580 ratings, 940 reviews)
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
Letters from an Astrophysicist by Neil deGrasse Tyson is a collection of correspondence where Tyson answers questions from the public with his characteristic wit and insight. The book provides a glimpse into his thoughts on various topics, ranging from science and philosophy to life’s big questions, making complex ideas accessible and engaging.
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$2499
Elsewhere:
$2600
OVERNIGHT NZ-WIDE DELIVERY

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?

You might like this book if you're fascinated by the cosmos and enjoy thought-provoking insights from one of the leading astrophysicists. It's perfect for anyone who loves science, wants to explore the universe's mysteries, and appreciates a clear, engaging writing style.

Book Hero thinking about your next read


INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER!

Join the galactic conversation on the biggest issues in the universe, from the 'most popular scientist in the world'


β€˜Don't fear change.

The most popular scientist in the world' (Sunday Times) bares his soul and answers the biggest questions in the galaxy

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

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 Tyson’s characteristic wit, wisdom, and humanity.

As the Director of the Hayden Planetarium and the charismatic host of Cosmos and StarTalk, Tyson has dedicated his career to demystifying the universe. In this book, he addresses queries about everything from the nature of God and the history of science to thoughts on extraterrestrial life and the enigma of death. Tyson's responses reveal his passions, doubts, and hopes, providing an intimate look at his personal philosophy and intellectual curiosity.

Deemed "The most popular scientist in the world" by the Sunday Times, Tyson is renowned for his ability to communicate complex ideas in an accessible and engaging way. His replies in Letters from an Astrophysicist range from thought-provoking to humorous, and always aim to inspire deeper thought and conversation about our place in the cosmos.

The book also features Tyson's reflections on societal and existential themes, encapsulating his views on ambition, failure, and the importance of scientific inquiry in expanding our understanding of the universe. One notable quote from the book encapsulates his philosophy: "Don't fear change. Don't fear failure. The only thing to fear is loss of ambition. But if you've got plenty of that, then you have nothing to fear at all."

Each letter and response is a testament to the power of curious minds engaging in the quest for knowledge and understanding. Letters from an Astrophysicist is not just a collection of correspondence; it is an invitation to join a galactic conversation, offering an awe-inspiring read that enriches our perspective of the universe and our place within it.

INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER!

Letters from an Astrophysicist is a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the universe, offering insights that will fuel conversations and inspire curiosity in readers of all backgrounds. Through his candid and often poignant exchanges, Neil deGrasse Tyson provides a unique lens through which to view the cosmos, making this book an essential addition to the library of any science enthusiast.

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?

Letters from an Astrophysicist is highly praised, with the Sunday Times calling Neil deGrasse Tyson the most popular scientist in the world. Brian Cox describes him as brilliant and inspirational, while Richard Dawkins compares him favourably to Carl Sagan. NASA acknowledges Tyson's inspirational impact, and Sean Carroll commends his ability to convey the excitement and passion of science.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780753553817

Publisher: Ebury Publishing

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 03 September 2020

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: W H Allen

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 17.0mm

Width: 126.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 187g

Pages: 272

About the Author

Neil deGrasse Tyson was born in New York City the same week NASA was founded. After a BA in Physics from Harvard, a PhD in Astrophysics from Columbia, and a Postdoctoral research fellowship at Princeton, Tyson become the Frederick P. Rose Director of the Hayden Planetarium, where he has served since 1996. Neil is the host of the award-winning Cosmos TV series, and StarTalk, the first ever science-based talk show and podcast. He has over 13 million Twitter followers, among the top 200 people in the world.

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 today
  • 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 today
  • 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
    $13300
    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
  • 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
  • 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
  • A Brief Welcome to the Universe
    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...
    Paperback
    $4400
    Available
    Ships in 2-3 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
    $7300
    Available
    Ships in 2-3 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
    $5300
    Available
    Ships in 2-3 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 today
  • Merlin's Tour of the Universe
    Fully revised and updated for the 21st century The #1 New York Times bestselling author of Astrophysics for People in a Hurry takes readers on an odyssey into the deepest, darkest depth of the universe and back again with his extra-terrestrial tour guide, Merlin. Merlin is a timeless visitor to Earth from the planet Omniscia in the Andromeda galaxy, and...
    Hardback
    $4100
    Elsewhere:
    $4500
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks

More from Science & Nature

View all
  • 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 today
  • 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 today
  • On Sale
    16% off
    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
    $2100
    Elsewhere:
    $2800
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Kitchen Confidential
    The classic bestseller from the star of Parts Unknown and No Reservations: 25th Anniversary edition, with a new introduction by Irvine Welsh. BEFORE THERE WAS THE BEAR, THERE WAS BOURDAIN. β€˜Elizabeth David written by Quentin Tarantino’ β€” A.A. Gill β€˜Fantastic: as lip-smackingly seductive as a bowl of fat chips and pungent aioli’ β€” Daily Telegraph After twenty-five years of sex,...
    Paperback
    $2500
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    (2)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Sapiens
    Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari is an extraordinary exploration of humanity's history from the dawn of our species to the present day. Harari delves into our evolution, offering insights into the cognitive revolutions that allowed Homo sapiens to rise above other animal species. Traversing through various stages of human development, he examines the Agricultural Revolution, the unification of humankind through...
    Paperback
    $2500
    Elsewhere:
    $3000
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Invisible Women
    Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez is a groundbreaking and meticulously researched exploration into the pervasive gender bias that infiltrates every aspect of our society. Through compelling case studies and thorough analysis, this book unveils the hidden ways women are systematically disadvantaged in a world predominantly designed by and for men. Perez's revelations stretch across various sectors including government policy,...
    Paperback
    $2500
    Elsewhere:
    $2600
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Talk
    A Harvard professor shows how we can become better talkers - and why effective conversation will help us all thrive. Conversation is at the heart of our relationships and decision-making, but the science behind our everyday interactions, and how to improve them, is little known. In Talk, Harvard Professor Alison Wood Brooks provides fascinating insights into the power of effective...
    Paperback
    $3000
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • On Sale
    20% off
    Clean & Green
    Simple swaps and innovative ideas for cleaning and maintaining your home that won't cost the Earth. Learn how easy it is to make simple swaps in your cleaning and tidying methods for a more eco-friendly home. This beautifully illustrated black and white guide with 101 hints and sustainable, natural cleaning tips and hacks will help you take small steps that...
    Paperback
    $2400
    Usually:
    $2999
    (2)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Genetic Book of the Dead
    From one of the world’s great science writers, a book that explores the deepest principles of evolutionary history. In this groundbreaking new approach to the evolution of all life, Richard Dawkins shows how the body, behaviour, and genes of every living creature can be read as a book – an archive of the worlds of its ancestors. A perfectly camouflaged...
    Hardback
    $4900
    Elsewhere:
    $5499
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Coming Wave
    The instant Sunday Times bestseller from the ultimate AI insider - the only book you need to read on this subject. An Economist, Financial Times, Guardian, Prospect and Sunday Times Book of the Year Shortlisted for the FT and Schroders Business Book of the Year This is the only book you need to understand our new world - from the...
    Paperback
    $2500
    Elsewhere:
    $2800
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Breath
    Discover the transformative power of breathing in Breath by esteemed journalist James Nestor. This revolutionary book delves into the science and history of one of the most fundamental human activities - breathing. From the bustling streets of SΓ£o Paulo to the serene temples of India, Nestor embarks on a global journey to uncover the secrets of ancient breathing techniques such...
    Paperback
    $2100
    Elsewhere:
    $2600
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Tiny Experiments
    'A compelling new take on a timeless concern' - CAL NEWPORT 'I loved this profound, practical and generous book' - OLIVER BURKEMAN We're told productivity is all about single-minded focus, hard grind and big goals. Deviating from the linear path means failure. The problem: it's not true. In this transformative book, neuroscientist and entrepreneur Anne-Laure Le Cunff reveals the easier,...
    Paperback
    $2799
    In Stock
    Ships today

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 100,000 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.