You Are Here: A Portable History of the Universe    by Christopher Potter Order:  USA  Can Harper, 2009 (2009) Hardcover, e-Book Read an Excerpt      Reviewed by Deb Kincaid Rarely does one come across a book so unique, so exquisite, so engaging that it stands out from others in its genre, but this is one. Christopher Potter’s amazing book, You Are Here: A Portable History of the Universe, explores the questions of why and how the universe came into existence, the success and failure of the scientific method, the contrasting worldviews of materialism and quantum physics, and even attempts to define faith and dogma both scientific and religious. As our tour guide to the cosmos both gargantuan and subatomic, Potter takes us first on a journey across the universe by order-of-magnitude measured steps, examining the contents of our 'cosmic address' up to 10 meters, up to 100 meters, and so on until we ultimately reach quasars at 13 billion light-years away. Then, he takes us back the other direction, all the way to subatomic particles and their relationship with light and energy. This gem of contemplation must be savored; it is impossible to rush through it, and who would want to? Whether one believes in a Creator or evolution, whether one believes in realism or illusion, whether one has faith in science or religion, the reader will find himself entranced at the thought provoking information and questions mulled by Potter. Christopher Potter holds a Masters degree in History and Philosophy of Science from the University of London, and is the former publisher and managing director of Fourth Estate. Potter writes authoritatively and with just enough humor and friendly poking at the scientific community so that this work is not only accessible but even enjoyable to us common folk. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more NonFiction books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews