To Infinity and Beyond! George’s Secret Key to the Universe by Stephen and Lucy Hawking

If you ever visited a planetarium or observatory as a child or adult, you are probably familiar with that overwhelming sense of wonder that came upon you when you first experienced the concept of the universe as a whole.

George’s Secret Key to the Universe, written by eminent physicist Stephen Hawking, and his daughter Lucy, successfully captures this curiosity and sense of ‘cosmic wonder’.

The fictional story is fast paced and well written. George, whose heart’s desire is a new computer, is the son of activists who believe that technology is the root of all evil. They grow all their own vegetables, knit, and keep a large pig in the backyard. But when the pig escapes, George goes looking for it and finds, instead, his unusual neighbours. Annie is a girl around George’s age, and her father Eric is the classic absent-minded physicist. Eric has invented an amazing computer called Cosmos who has been able to create a portal directly into space. After Eric very patiently explains a little bit about space, technology and the good and bad ways in which it can be used, George and Lucy suddenly find themselves exploring, and what a trip it is.

George’s Secret Key to the Universe manages to do what many informative books for children try and fail to do – it perfectly blends fact and entertainment, and while being incredibly entertaining – it’s non-fiction content is detailed and accurate.

Complex physics ideas are explored, both through the narrative and in breakout information blocks. Graphs, illustrations and diagrams aid readers (young AND old) in understanding concepts and scientific principles with ease.

The book makes a refreshing change for young readers from the world of magic that is always so popular. After all, what could be more magical than a star at the centre of a planetary nebula, or the Pillars of Creation?

This reviewer wouldn’t be surprised if this book resulted In a few more aspirational young scientists and physicists determined to explore the universe and stars!

You can purchase this book (and the others in the series) here.

About the Authors:

STEPHEN HAWKING was the Lucasian Professor of Mathematics and Theoretical Physics at the University of Cambridge and is widely regarded as one of the most brilliant theoretical physicists since Einstein. His adult book A Brief History of Time has been a publishing sensation.

LUCY HAWKING is the author of two adult novels, has written for the Daily Mail, the Telegraph, The Times and the Evening Standard and has been a guest presenter and regular contributor on radio.