A Really Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson

A Really Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson introduces young readers to science through questions about the universe, Earth, dinosaurs, and the development of civilization. The listing describes an illustrated, conversational approach intended to make scientific discoveries accessible to children.

At a glance

Covers scientific questions and discoveries from the Big Bang through the rise of civilization.
The listing describes clear illustrations and an accessible, conversational style for young readers.
Its 169-page length offers a shorter format than a broad, full-length science survey.

Price

$8.91Save 59%

Reference price: ~~$21.99~~

Price checked: Nov 13, 2026

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Pros and cons

Pros

Connects a wide range of science topics with questions that can engage curious readers.
Customer feedback describes the writing as entertaining and understandable, with clear illustrations.

Technical specifications

11 specifications

Publication
Publisher	Delacorte Press
Publication date	October 27, 2009
Edition	First Edition
Language	English
Print length	169 pages
ISBN-10	0385738102
ISBN-13	978-0385738101

Audience
Reading age listed	8 - 12 years, from customers
Grade level	3 - 7

Dimensions and installation
Dimensions	8.81 x 0.72 x 11.31 inches
Weight listed	2.12 pounds

What to know before buying

Listing details to confirm

The listing describes the book as for young readers, while the stated reading-age range is attributed to customers. Consider the child’s reading level and interests when deciding whether its broad science survey is a good fit.

Who is it for?

A good fit for

Children interested in science, Earth, space, dinosaurs, and how scientific ideas developed.
Families or educators looking for an illustrated science read that may also interest adult readers.

Less suited to

Readers seeking an advanced technical textbook or a narrowly focused treatment of one science topic.

A Really Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson · photo 2 — Additional product photo 2

Customer reviews on Amazon

4.6 / 5 · 1,471 ratings

5 stars79%79%
4 stars13%13%
3 stars5%5%
2 stars1%1%
1 star2%2%

Customer feedback highlights an informative and entertaining presentation, with readers appreciating the conversational writing, humor, illustrations, and broad topic range. That response is relevant for families seeking an engaging introduction rather than a specialist reference. Aggregate ratings are largely five-star, but they do not establish how suitable the book will be for an individual reader.

Positive themes

Customers describe the book as informative and entertaining.
Feedback praises the conversational, understandable writing and clear illustrations.
Readers appreciate the humor and broad range of subjects.

Frequently asked questions

What subjects does the book cover?

The listing describes a broad survey from the Big Bang to the rise of civilization, including questions about dinosaurs, the universe, and Earth.

Is it aimed at children?

Yes. The description presents it as accessible science for young readers, and the listed grade level is 3 - 7. The reading-age field says 8 - 12 years, from customers.

How long is this edition?

The listing gives a print length of 169 pages.

Does it include illustrations?

The product description and customer feedback mention illustrations. The feedback describes them as clear.