Taxi from Another Planet: Conversations with Drivers about Life in the Universe
Taxi from Another Planet: Conversations with Drivers about Life in the Universe
A shrewd and entertaining foray into the most fundamental mysteries, TAXI FROM ANOTHER PLANET brings together the wisdom of scientific experts and their fellow citizens of Earth, the better to understand how life might unfold elsewhere.
Reviews
From human societies on Mars to cosmic microbes and alien worlds, this superbly intelligent, erudite book offers an intoxicating look at how the cutting edge of scientific thought on life’s status in the universe connects to all of us. Faced with the fascinating questions of taxi drivers from around the world, Cockell is a convivial and inspiring passenger.
Most astronomers find it hard to respond to questions from the public without lapsing into jargon or technicalities, but Charles Cockell is a natural communicator. TAXI FROM ANOTHER PLANET conveys an array of ideas―all fascinating, and some profound―with a light touch and utter clarity. Accessible to anyone curious about the cosmos.
In this unique book, Cockell takes us on a journey through astrobiology―one taxi ride at a time. Combining scientific inquiries with personal stories, TAXI FROM ANOTHER PLANET is a fascinating conversation starter.
Cab drivers spend mere minutes with their passengers, which motivates them to ask riders only the interesting questions: Could Martians be dangerous? Will talking to aliens be more enlightening than talking to a dog? Cockell’s answers from the backseat are clear and delightfully phrased in this informative and thoroughly entertaining book.
The ever curious and creative mind of Charles Cockell takes us on a ride that is both whimsical and thoroughly insightful. Science, society, and history are woven together throughout this delightful book, resembling the many intertwining streets of Cockell’s journeys, and ours.
Conversations with cab drivers lead to discussions about space exploration in this fun outing from astrobiologist Cockell… Cockell fields questions regarding both space and life on Earth, wonderfully demonstrating how knowledge of the former can significantly enhance understanding of earthbound issues, and he does a great job blending cutting-edge science with philosophical considerations. This is a joy to read.
The single most interesting space book I’ve seen this year… I remain very grateful for TAXI FROM ANOTHER PLANET, a book I will be returning to and recommending to others.
An interesting and humorous approach to questions about the universe with relatively in-depth subject exploration.
Hail a cab or stay at home and read this book.
With this timely new book, Cockell makes us consider a gamut of new possibilities that boggle the mind.
Insightful, good-humored essays on the possibilities of alien life and the uses of space exploration, based on an astrobiologist’s everyday conversations with his fellow humans―taxi drivers, to be precise.
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