Possibly the first 'Scientist' who was able to popularise Astronomy/Science to the mass audience and his book descibes in a very 'layman' fashion which was mostly why it was a success around the world. Carl Sagan - he who brought the Heavens back 'down to earth'. ( )

When you truly understand Carl Sagan's views of the Cosmos, it will become very clear that we are only just beginning our journey. It is no wonder that this book is a classic for all of time. Carl Sagan was truly one of the higher forms of intelligent life ( )

First of all, I find the style employed by Sagan very readable. He does not dumb down what he is talking about, but he makes it accessible for someone without an intense background in science courses. I also like that much of the foundation of the book is comprised of concepts and ideas that I have already learned about and understand. Such a jumping off point made for easier comprehension of more in depth discussion.
As for the subjects he treated, they ranged a wide spectrum, including biology, astronomy, evolution, and genetics. In tackling these topics he refers to many instances in history, philosophy, religion, and folklore, which adds a particular richness that most people at first glance might not assign to science. The one pitfall of this book is that it was written over twenty years ago—so it is dated. Despite this, much of the book is still pertinent, and the insights packed in every page made it a worthwhile read for me. Reading Carl Sagan is like having a passionate conversation with a friend that happens to be a scientist. He is completely amiable in every sentence that he writes. Not only did I find that this book educated me on a range of topics that I was interested in, but it made me feel better equipped in my knowledge of the planet I live on and the universe around me. ( )

A fun read especially after 20 years (maybe 30 soon?). I found my mom's copy. If you are going to read this book, find the hardcover edition with the full page color pictures. This is where Sagan ties everything together beautifully. ( )

What a great book! I picked it off the shelf for a casual read and was promptly engrossed. Carl Sagan has such an enthusiasm for science and an eloquent way of communicating complex concepts that this book is a great intro to science for anyone. Want to get interested in science? Read this book! ( )

Written in 1980s, Cosmos is a comprehensive general science book dealing with history of astronomy and evolution. Book provides a overview of our universe and planet, regarding laws that govern them, how they were discovered, and what lies ahead. Information is well researched and well written in captivating way. ( )

A wonderful introduction to the Universe and Man's role in it... ( )

I can remember watching the TV series when it was first shown on UK TV and being awe-struck. It was around the time of the Voyager or was it Pioneer pictures of the outer solar system and really made me think about life the universe and everything.

I think I saw the last two episodes on a tiny black and white set, equipped with a very poor arial, in the kitchen of a caravan in Cornwall, surrounded by snoring relatives, nearly all of whom are now dead BTW. Tempus Fugit.

I got the book for Xmas and it still has my name and address and a very short phone number written inside the cover.

I was slightly apprehensive about re-reading this book after all these years just in case it disappointed me thanks to a combination of 30 years of scientific progress and the golden light of memory.

No a bit of it, still a wonderfully approachable introduction to Life the Universe and Everything, told with respect for the readers intelligence and a sense of the awe and sheer enjoyment that can be had in understanding the world we live in which I find infectious. Not many books can include a reference to a mathematical proof as an appendix which actually provides enjoyment.

I heartily recommend this book especially, to 10 to 14 year olds. ( )

Carl Sagan's very well done introduction to astronomy, cosmology, life and all that good stuff, as he sets out to explain to the layperson the origins of the universe, the stars, and the planets, and ultimately, us.

An uplifting publication to go alongside his tv series. ( )

Though this point has been time and time again, perhaps the greatest legacy that Carl Sagan left to us is how he was able to popularize science for the masses. While presenting a picture of a vast universe, one in which humanity is neither noteworthy nor the end result of the universe's creation, Sagan does not make the reader feel insignificant or forlorn. Rather, the reader is filled with a sense of awe and is inspired by the possibilities the cosmos holds for our species. It really isn't hyperbole when I claim that, for many, "Cosmos" is a spiritual, as well as an intellectual, journey of the imagination. ( )

The companion book to the famous PBS series.

Sagan looks at the study of the Comos has shaped our world view. ( )

The classic introduction to astronomy and cosomolgy. I remember watching the TV series with Carl Sagan as a teenager, it was very inspirational. ( )

Much better than the TV show ( )

One of my all-time favourites. ( )

My desert island shelf contains all my favorite books which I have encountered since I began reading decades ago. I would want these books if I could have no others.

Carl Sagan, another hero of mine, was rational, erudite, and compassionate. My love of science stems from watching the original Cosmos series on PBS. --JJM 10/10/05