Lewis Dartnell is an astrobiology researcher and professor at the University of Westminster. He has won several awards for his science writing, and contributes to the Guardian, The Times and New Scientist. He has also written for television and appeared on Horizon, Sky News, and Wonders of the Universe, as well as National Geographic and History channels. A tireless populariser of science, his previous books include the bestselling The Knowledge- How to Rebuild Our World from Scratch.
A sweeping, brilliant overview of the history not only of our species but of the world. Whether discussing the formation of continents or the role that climate (and climate change) has had on human migration, Lewis Dartnell has a rare talent in being able to see the big picture - and explaining why it matters. -- Peter Frankopan, author of THE SILK ROADS Origins by Lewis Dartnell stands comparison with Yuval Noah Harari's Sapiens...A thrilling piece of Big History -- James McConnachie * Sunday Times * 'Extraordinary... Origins is one of those rare books that dissolves mystery through the steady application of sublime lucidity. While reading it, I kept thinking: Oh, that makes sense... ... Dartnell understands geology, geography, anthropology, physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy and history. That's quite an achievement, but what makes him special is the way he communicates the interconnectedness of these disciplines in a clear, logical and entertaining way...Superb. -- Gerard DeGroot * The Times * Dartnell has an easy, light touch that mixes well with his considerable knowledge. The result is a first-class read - and an important one -- Robin McKie * Observer * Dartnell has found the perfect blend of science and history. This is a book that will not only challenge our preconceptions about the past, but should make us think very carefully about humanity's future -- Simon Griffith * Mail on Sunday *