Weinberg traces science's evolution from its ancient beginnings through Newton's discoveries. Narrator Tom Perkins delivers Weinberg's book as a well-presented beginners' lecture, starting in the early passages, where the author writes about scientists' love of theory. As Weinberg mixes science and math with biographies and a discussion of cultural attitudes toward science, Perkins makes sure listeners can follow the main points on an international tour of early scientific inquiry. Still, there are places where it bogs down. The general listener may not be interested in lists of people who translated scientific works or be able to follow an equation while driving. Nonetheless, listeners will learn enough to appreciate the development of science.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2015
Duration: 10 hrs, 45 mins
Publisher: Tantor Media
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Dr. Plotkin is an ethnobotanist who recounts his experiences searching for new medications in the Amazon rain forest. He makes an impassioned plea for the world to stop destroying this irreplaceable resource. Since the author reads his own work, we can rely on the pronunciation of some unusual botanical terms; however, his voice (presumably not trained for performance) lacks the enthusiasm and fascination the words suggest. Furthermore, with no chapter references and few pauses between sections, transitions, such as the change of location from Ecuador to Massachusetts, are awkward.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This one-volume history of Earth is a fascinating trip made that much better by the narrator’s effective delivery.
This work is like a one-semester course in geology, and it’s easy to imagine narrator David Linski standing in front of a class delivering the lectures. The audiobook is aimed at lay listeners; the science isn’t dumbed down but no background in Earth science is required. Linski’s delivery is solid, and he effectively adjusts his pace to fit the material and keep listeners engaged. He handles technical terms with ease. Author Woodward takes listeners from the formation of the universe to Earth as we know it today.
This one-volume history of Earth is a fascinating trip made that much better by the narrator’s effective delivery.Pub Date: Feb. 7, 2026
Duration: 10 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798228699564
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Review Posted Online: Feb. 17, 2026
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