Maria Popova's "The Universe In Verse" is a luminous anthology that beautifully interlaces the realms of science, poetry, and art. This book is a testament to the profound interconnectedness of these disciplines, each essay and poem reflecting the wonder of the universe and our place within it.

Poetry and science are instruments for knowing the world more intimately and loving it more deeply. This sentiment sets the tone for the entire collection, which consists of 15 short essays exploring a diverse array of scientific topics. From the enigmatic allure of dark matter and the infinite nature of pi to the remarkable resilience of fauna and the extraordinary intelligence of octopuses, each essay delves into the mysteries of our world with curiosity and reverence.

What makes "The Universe In Verse" truly exceptional is Popova's focus on the human stories behind scientific discoveries. Many of the scientists featured are women who have historically been underrecognized for their contributions. Their narratives are woven seamlessly with the broader themes of the essays, providing a deeply personal and poignant perspective on scientific exploration.

Each essay is thoughtfully paired with a poem that echoes its subject, penned by renowned poets such as Emily Dickinson, W. H. Auden, Edna St. Vincent Millay, Maya Angelou, Diane Ackerman, and Tracy K. Smith. Like a good wine and cheese, this pairing creates a rich dialogue between the analytical and the lyrical, enhancing the reader's appreciation of both the science and the poetry.

The illustrations by celebrated artist Ofra Amit are nothing short of stunning. Rendered in limited or monochrome palettes of reds and blues, they complement the text with a subtle elegance, adding an extra layer of beauty to the reading experience. The visuals are not merely decorative but are integral to the book's ability to evoke a sense of wonder and awe.

"The Universe In Verse" is a love letter to all the things that matter—science, art, poetry, and the human spirit. It is a lyrical melding of disciplines that awakens the reader to a reality aglow with wonder. The collection is a beautiful, wonderful, somber, and hopeful thing all at once, capturing the complexity and richness of our universe and the ongoing quest to understand it.

This anthology is more than just a book; it is an experience that leaves the reader feeling enlightened and inspired. Maria Popova has masterfully curated a work that not only informs but also moves the soul, making "The Universe In Verse" an essential read for anyone who cherishes the beauty of knowledge and the poetry of existence.

Popova's "The Universe in Verse" merges science and poetry, offering a unique literary experience that aims to invoke wonder and curiosity about the universe. The book consists of 15 chapters, each acting as a "portal" through which readers can explore scientific concepts intertwined with poetic reflections.

Popova's ambitious project to blend science with poetry is both innovative and refreshing. She chooses poems that resonate with scientific themes, using them as gateways to delve into various scientific concepts. This approach not only makes complex ideas more relatable but also adds an emotional and aesthetic dimension to the understanding of science. The poetic interludes serve as a reminder of the inherent beauty and mystery of the universe, something that can sometimes be lost in the rigour of scientific analysis.

However, while the poetry often beautifully complements the scientific discourse, there are moments where the integration feels forced. Some poems, though thematically relevant, do not always enhance the scientific narrative and can feel like an artistic detour rather than a seamless fusion.

Popova demonstrates a commendable grasp of scientific concepts, presenting them accurately and engagingly. The scientific discussions are accessible to a broad audience, making complex topics such as quantum mechanics, cosmology, and the nature of time understandable without oversimplifying them.

One of the book's strengths lies in its philosophical reflections on the nature of scientific inquiry and human understanding. Popova explores the intersections between science, philosophy, and art, offering insights that encourage readers to ponder the broader implications of scientific discoveries. These reflections add depth to the book, making it not just a collection of facts and poems but a profound exploration of our place in the cosmos.

Popova's writing is elegant and evocative, capturing the reader's imagination. Her narrative style is both informative and lyrical, making the book a pleasure to read. She balances the technical aspects of science with the expressive power of poetry, creating a work that is intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

From a critical standpoint, the book could benefit from a more consistent integration of poetry and science. While the thematic connections are generally well-done, there are instances where the poetry feels more like an embellishment than an integral part of the scientific discourse.

A superb collection of poems and essays that meditate on the endless awe within this universe. Maria Popova carefully spins words around the selected poems giving them a broader context, and Ofra Amit’s illustrations make this book dazzling to the eyes, not only the heart & mind. A book to hold & to gift!

Thank you, NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC!

The Universe In Verse is an absolutely beautiful, intriguing, somber, and also hopeful thing all at once.

I knew I would love this book as soon as I read the dedication
“For Emily, who returned her borrowed stardust to the universe far too soon.”
- just beautiful and so full of love. We really are all just borrowed stardust.

I enjoyed learning new information, especially about the contributions of specific women in science. So much I didn’t know.

Maria Popova put together an absolutely beautiful collection of poems and accompanied each with a concept to be explored in the world of science.
The illustrations by Ofra Amit were such a lovely touch! So gorgeous.

A wonderful mix of poetry, science, and art.

Each poem has an introduction to set the context, which adds meaning to the poems. The collection itself is diverse and includes a mix of traditional and contemporary poetry. The addition of the artwork is masterful.

I plan to purchase a hard copy of the book to treasure forever.

Fifteen science concepts pithily explained in clear, clean prose followed by a related and beautiful poem. The poetry was perfectly matched to its concept and lesser known gems were included as well as pieces by more famous authors.

I loved how the collection was curated, as well as the deceptively simple but gorgeous illustrations. An unusual and beautiful addition to any poetry selection.

I love books with themes and this was a great read because it focused on the interrelationship between poetry and science, and had beautiful illustrations by the Israeli artist Omar Afrit. I received a Kindle version of the book to review from Netgalley, and I only wish I had the hardback copy because I would have enjoyed the illustrations more.

I loved this book as a natural science lover. It had a good representation of mathematicians, scientists, writers, and poets from different backgrounds talking about the advancement of man while exploring space the beauty of nature on earth, and how it grounds and inspires us. The artwork is mesmerizing and striking, linking the reader to the art. I honestly cried while reading Maya Anglou's poem. It makes me dream of a better world for all of us. This book is a beautiful gift for friends and family who love historical nonfiction stories about our universe. I loved it and began to make a list of how I could give this book as gifts.

Thank you, Netgalley and Storey Publishing, for allowing me to read this ebook.

Sometimes there is no good way to capture the wonder of the natural world, but both science and poetry come close. This book is a collection of 15 short stories that recounts historical facts around some of the most wondrous discoveries of the past few decades. Each is accompanied by a poem that conveys that wonder much better than prose ever could. The stories have a tendency to focus on women scientists, though many more men make appearances. The book can be read straight through, but it's also completely acceptable to skip around enjoying just the poems or just the artwork, which is breathtaking.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. All opinions are my own.

I am speechless. This is by far the most beautiful book of poetry I've ever read.

I would try to purchase a physical copy when it's out.

Something beautiful happens when art and science work together to create a story. Popova weaves together complex science topics beautifully with poems from celebrated poets to show the readers the beauty in the natural world. With each essay and poem, readers are treated to a wonderful illustration.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you @netgalley and @storeypub for sending me this ebook for review consideration.

A beautiful anthology with lovely illustrations, poetry, and delightful essays. I really enjoyed reading this book and I am so happy to have received a preview of this book. I plan to order a copy of this book for myself and family members who also love space and poetry.

In Maria Popova's "The Universe in Verse," the marriage of science and poetry takes center stage, orchestrating a symphony where the left and right brain work in unison. This captivating exploration transcends conventional boundaries, offering an exquisite ode to wonder and a poignant journey through humanity's pursuit of truth and significance.

At the heart of Maria Popova's narrative lies the belief that both poetry and science serve as instruments for delving into the depths of our world, fostering a profound intimacy and love for it. Across fifteen succinct essays, she delves into a spectrum of subjects, from the enigmatic realms of dark matter and the infinite elegance of pi to the enduring resilience of trees and the intricate intelligence of octopuses.

What sets Popova's work apart is her seamless integration of scientific inquiry with the human narratives behind it. Through her vivid storytelling, she unveils the lives of scientists—many of whom are women, often overlooked—and the poets who share their awe-inspired quest. Each essay serves as a window into the relentless pursuit of knowledge, revealing the intertwined threads of curiosity and creativity that propel humanity forward.

Complementing these narratives are carefully curated poems that mirror the essence of each scientific exploration. From the timeless verses of Emily Dickinson and W. H. Auden to the contemporary reflections of Maya Angelou and Tracy K. Smith, these poems elevate the text, infusing it with emotional depth and lyrical beauty. Moreover, the exquisite illustrations by Ofra Amit breathe life into the pages, inviting readers into a visual feast that mirrors the wonder of the cosmos.

"The Universe in Verse" is more than a collection of essays and poems—it's a celebration of the human spirit's insatiable quest for understanding. Through Maria Popova's eloquent prose and the diverse voices of poets and scientists alike, readers are invited to contemplate the mysteries of existence and find solace in the interconnectedness of all things. It's a reminder that, amidst the vast expanse of the universe, we are bound together by our shared wonder and curiosity.

In essence, "The Universe in Verse" is a masterpiece that transcends genres, offering a harmonious blend of science and poetry that speaks to the very essence of what it means to be human. It's a testament to the power of language and exploration, guiding readers on a transformative journey through the cosmos and the depths of the human soul.

I loved every second of reading this! This collection brought so many concepts to light for me that I never gave much thought to before, and I learned a lot of new information, especially about the contributions of specific women in science, mathematics, and astronomy.

Each of the 15 segments is about a different topic and includes a sort of prelude to a poem of the same topic. The introductions give some background on the concepts themselves (from things like black holes to radioactivity to octopi) and connects those concepts to the poem it introduces. I found myself wanting more from the parts that preceded the poems, wanting to know more about each concept, but I had to remind myself they really are just serving as introductions.

I don't really have anything negative to say besides that I wish it were longer and included more "portals"! This concept is so unique.

I knew I would love this book as soon as I read the beautiful dedication
“For Emily, who returned her borrowed stardust to the universe far too soon.”

There’s a line in the book which describe humans as “Small awestruck creatures with vast complex consciousness.” Which I found so beautiful. I remember first learning about the golden disc and how we are all made of stardust and how emotional it made me. This book perfectly encapsulates those feelings.

This is a love letter to the universe itself!

Thanks to NetGalley and publishers for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review!

A truly stunning book within such an original concept.

Illustration. Context. Poem.

Each poem is preceded by it's context within the wider universe, that which ties us to the poem in question. We read about the universe in all it's glory, which follows stunning illustrations which represents both the context and the poem.

A beautiful gift for a lover of art, the universe and poetry.

I absolutely adore this combination of history, science, and literature. Each poem is precluded by a short bit of scientific history and the following poem relates to that branch or era of science. It's a lovely book that really pulled me in. As a scientist, this is a beautiful book.

This short collection is a beautiful reflection of the vastness of the world around us from various elements of nature and into the cosmos. The combination of art and science creates a wonderful transitional space to explore these ideas through a softer lens. It is always a joy to learn beloved authors have a background in sciences and see how this can influence their works. I particularly enjoyed learning more about women in sciences throughout the years; they are often not household names but their contributions to their respective fields cannot be understated.

I loved the short introductions that provided context for each poem; I found them incredibly helpful and enabled a deeper connection to each piece. I also thought the illustrations were a lovely touch throughout the anthology.

I have long been a fan of Maria Popova and this book is absolutely beautiful. I took my time reading it with devotion and as a devotional. The artwork is stunning. The histories and threads that tie together our world through poetry is breath-taking. I can't wait to purchase this for holiday gifts.

"The Universe in Verse: 15 Portals to Wonder through Science & Poetry" is a transcendent literary journey curated by the brilliant mind of Maria Popova. In this anthology, Popova ingeniously intertwines the realms of science and poetry, inviting readers to embark on a voyage through the cosmos where the beauty of the universe is illuminated through the lens of poetic expression.

Popova's curation of the anthology is nothing short of masterful. Each poem serves as a portal, transporting readers to different corners of the universe, from the vast expanse of space to the intricate workings of the human mind. Through the carefully selected verses, Popova seamlessly bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and artistic exploration, demonstrating how both disciplines are essential facets of human understanding.

One of the most captivating aspects of "The Universe in Verse" is its ability to inspire a sense of awe and wonder. As readers delve into the depths of the cosmos alongside luminaries like Emily Dickinson, Maya Angelou, and Carl Sagan, they are reminded of the sheer magnificence of the universe and our place within it. Each poem serves as a testament to the power of language to evoke emotion and provoke introspection, inviting readers to contemplate their place in the vast tapestry of existence.

Furthermore, Popova's insightful commentary provides invaluable context for each poem, offering readers a deeper understanding of the scientific principles and philosophical ideas that underpin the verses. Her eloquent prose serves as a guiding light, illuminating the connections between science and poetry and enriching the reader's experience of each poem.

"The Universe in Verse" is not merely a book; it is a celebration of the human spirit and our relentless curiosity about the world around us. Through the marriage of science and poetry, Maria Popova invites readers to embark on a journey of discovery, where the boundaries between disciplines blur and the mysteries of the universe are laid bare. This anthology is a testament to the enduring power of language to inspire, educate, and transform—a must-read for anyone who has ever looked up at the stars and wondered about the cosmos.

In conclusion, "The Universe in Verse" is a triumph of literary curation—an exquisite tapestry of science and poetry that captures the essence of our quest to understand the universe and ourselves. Maria Popova's visionary anthology is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers, inspiring them to view the world with newfound wonder and appreciation.