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Letters from an Astrophysicist

By: Neil deGrasse Tyson
Narrated by: Neil deGrasse Tyson, full cast
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Summary

Brought to you by Penguin.

Join the galactic conversation on the biggest issues in the universe


‘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’ – Neil deGrasse Tyson

Neil deGrasse Tyson is arguably the most influential, acclaimed scientist on the planet. As director of the Hayden Planetarium, and host of Cosmos and StarTalk, he has dedicated his life to exploring and explaining the mysteries of the universe.

Every year, he receives thousands of letters – from students to prisoners, scientists to priests. Some seek advice, others yearn for inspiration; some are full of despair, others burst with wonder. But they are all searching for understanding, meaning and truth.

His replies are by turns wise, funny, and mind-blowing. In this, his most personal book by far, he covers everything from God to the history of science, from aliens to death. He bares his soul – his passions, his doubts, his hopes. The big theme is everywhere in these pages: what is our place in the universe?

The result is an awe-inspiring read and an intimate portal into an incredible mind, which reveals the power of the universe to start conversations and inspire curiosity in all of us.

The full list of narrators includes Victor Bevine, Gabriel Vaughan, Lauren Fortgang, Neil Hellegers, Kevin Free, Vikas Adam, Nick Sullivan, Gabra Zackman, Allyson Johnson, Brandon Rubin, and Piper Goodeve.

©2019 Neil deGrasse Tyson (P)2019 Penguin Audio
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What listeners say about Letters from an Astrophysicist

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Insightful.

To be honest I didn't know what to expect when i fist picked up this audiobook. But at the end of it I was glad that I did.

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True to character

As always Neil deGrasse Tyson does not disappoint. I really enjoyed all the letters and I especially enjoyed all the answers.

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The Essence of Neil deGrasse Tyson

I've listened to several of Neil's books and watched many of his YouTube videos, so I was a fan before finding this audiobook. Even so, this one blew me away because, in reading a selection of his past letters and emails, Neil brings his personality, his humanity and his strong belief in education right to the front of the presentation.

My favourite "story" in this book is the one about the man who gave away his old telescope to a wide-eyed 12 year old girl. You should buy this just for that 1 minute of audio as far as I'm concerned.

Thank you Neil for everything you do for the world of science education. Your balanced, honest, forthright and well-informed approach is both original and powerful.

By now, it's obvious that I like this audiobook. So I'll just say - if you like Neil already, you have to listen to this one!

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Funny, insightful and touching.

Loved this book. It was as funny and informative as Professor Tyson's best work giving the listener a glimpse into the makeup of the people of the world and a look behind the curtain into the core of Professor Tyson.

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Fantastic

Once I started, it was hard to stop. Most of this book is as it sounds, letters to Dr Tyson and his reply to those letters. However to get a glimps into the burning questions others have for such a man is entertainingly eye opening. It may not be for everyone but I loved it.

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Out of This World.

I thoroughly enjoyed it. In saying that I would have loved some more stories between letters, narration was fantastic.

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Neil Dee Grasse Tyson

Neil De Grasse Tyson is a living legend. Appreciate his knowledge and the eloquent way he shares it with the world.

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A beautiful book that had me crying throughout.

This is incredible. Touching and informative. Written and read by one of the worlds most inspirational men.

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Better if limited to one letter per day

As always, valuable information and precious experience from the great Scientist-in-Chief we love. However, some replies are too short, and more contextual footnotes would have been welcome.

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Several hours of Neil being a boss

Doctor Tyson does his usual thing, where he expresses his calculated thoughts in order to vanquish ignorance and enlighten all those that have the privilege of listening to his masterful story telling and passion for educating people to become more scientifically literate.

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