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How to Bake a Universe

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( 90 ratings, 24 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
How to Bake a Universe takes readers on a whimsical journey through the formation of the cosmos, using the metaphor of a recipe to explain complex scientific concepts. Alec Carvlin breaks down the Big Bang and subsequent events—from the birth of quarks and atoms to the creation of stars and planets—with clear, engaging storytelling. The book’s playful tone and Brian Biggs's vibrant illustrations make the vast universe accessible and inviting for all ages.
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Format: Hardback
$3599
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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 is perfect for young readers with a curiosity about space and science, as well as adults seeking an enjoyable and understandable introduction to the universe’s origins. Its playful approach suits families, educators, and anyone who enjoys creative storytelling combined with real scientific knowledge.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

This whimsical and informed debut picture book takes a leaf from a cookbook to show readers how the universe came into being

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

To bake a universe, you'll need a heaping pile of nothing. That's right, not a single thing!

Just make sure you have enough . . . Alec Carvlin breaks down the Big Bang into the steps of a recipe, from the formation of quarks and atoms (preheat your oven to Absolute Hot) to the compression of gases into stars and planets (just set your timer for 180 million years).

Carvlin expertly balances mind-boggling facts with snappy storytelling, and Brian Biggs's bold and contagiously cheerful illustrations bring the infinite down to the bite-sized. How to Bake a Universe is an accessible and playful authority on the formation of the universe and a heartfelt commentary on how to live in it.

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?

Critics praise the book for its entertaining and imaginative presentation of cosmic science. Booklist highlights how the use of absurdity demystifies complex scientific phenomena, while Publishers Weekly applauds its blend of nerdy humour and cooking-themed explanations, all enhanced by lively, colourful illustrations.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781324004233

Publisher: WW Norton & Co

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 01 March 2022

Country: United States

Imprint: WW Norton & Co

Illustration: Full color throughout

Contributors:

  • Illustrated by Brian Biggs
  • Illustrated by Brian Biggs

Audience: Children

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 13.0mm

Width: 201.0mm

Height: 264.0mm

Weight: 368g

Pages: 56

About the Author

Alec Carvlin is an author and designer who graduated from Dartmouth College with a BA in classical studies. How to Bake a Universe is his debut picture book. He lives outside Boston. Brian Biggs is a children’s book creator who has collaborated with authors like Jon Scieszka, Mac Barnett, and Katherine Applegate. He lives in Philadelphia with his wife.

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