S MALLEST LIGHTS IN THE UNIVERSE, THE

This book is simultaneously a scientific and a personal memoir. Instead of whitewashed pictures of heros of science, we have the story of scientist as one of us, facing the same intractable problems of human existence that everyone faces, and yet managing to keep the scientific enterprise going.

The packaging was open when the order came and the giftcard i ordered was missing. Overall book was very nice.

What hits you most, within the first chapter or two, is just how well this is written. Do not be put off by the fact that Seager is an MIT Professor, she can write, and this is not a science textbook. Yes, there are references to her work which will interest the science-minded, but even these are written with the very sense of childlike awe that gets people into astrophysics in the first place. This book is a memoir, a disarming, tragic, beautiful, and sometimes brutally honest portrayal of a girl, who nowadays would be classed as 'on the spectrum', having to grow beyond her years from an early age, focused on her dreams whilst at the same time struggling with society and relationships and having to deal with the sudden death of her husband, her unexpected soulmate, and the two young children left behind.I’m an astrophysics graduate myself, though I have unfortunately never managed to work in the industry, but you don't have to be to follow Seager's interesting career, particularly in the area of exoplanets and their atmospheres. Because she can actually write at the level of a 'proper' author, not a just a competent professor, even the chapters focussing on her work are incredibly accessibly, and once more, profoundly interesting.But it is really the human side of the story that stands out, and there's no holding back. This is true account of grief, and the unexpected curveballs life can throw at you. Seager's brutal honesty is disarming, and a little shocking at times, because she isn't selective - she's tells the story as it was, however unsavoury her thoughts at the time. The consistent theme here is the struggles of the large against the small, the internal struggles of someone dreaming of other worlds and universes, whilst at the same time craving and ultimately savouring the little things in life.If you're looking for deep scientific discussions on Seager's work, then this isn't the place. There are many other books that cover that, though I think you'd still find plenty to keep you interested. What this is, is a wonderfully structured book about life - the wonders and dreams that drive people to study the heavens, and the human dramas that keep us firmly down on the ground.Having said that, Seager's passion for astronomy oozes from the pages from the very beginning, and if you've ever wondered how people become interested in the heavens above, then you'll find no better reference.A beautifully structured and well-written human story, in which the smallest lights in the universe can be found in both the far reaches of the galaxy, and as close to home as you can get.

Pr. Seager has managed to share her passion for astronomy and the search for earth like planets to a wide audience. Her passion can be felt on every page, and the narrative flows so beautifully. Her life's work and her dedication to making advances in her field are truly inspiring. This book is a glimpse into this unique and talented mind. She also pours her soul into this book, sharing the loss of her husband too early and the traumatic and emotional year following his death and her grief. She successfully raised two young boys whilst working full time and making scientific advances at the same time. She is the Wonder Woman of our time. What an incredible scientist, what an incredible woman and mother. An exceptional writer too. Throughout the book, readers will greatly appreciate her philosophical perspectives on her life and work. Truly inspiring. A must read.

A beautiful journey through the universe and the life of one of its intrepid and passionate explorers. Seagar’s heartfelt honesty in the face of grief, coupled with her impassioned telling of her journey to discover the wonders of exoplanets make for a compelling combination, that has so much to teach on the nature of both.

I loved this book for obvious reasons: I love science and technology and I was enthralled by the search for exoplanets and the technology that goes with it. More subtly, I found the intertwining of scientific advances on exoplanets and the personal history of the author very elegant and endearing. @Sara Seager: I am a fan now!

This book is really flawless. It's like a hug, for lovers of stars and humanity. I truly wish Sara was a friend!