Bringing his cosmic perspective to civilization on Earth, Neil deGrasse Tyson shines new light on the crucial fault lines of our time—war, politics, religion, truth, beauty, gender, and race—in a way that stimulates a deeper sense of unity for us all.
In a time when our political and cultural views feel more polarized than ever, Tyson provides a much-needed antidote to so much of what divides us, while making a passionate case for the twin chariots of enlightenment—a cosmic perspective and the rationality of science.
After thinking deeply about how science sees the world and about Earth as a planet, the human brain has the capacity to reset and recalibrates life’s priorities, shaping the actions we might take in response. No outlook on culture, society, or civilization remains untouched.
With crystalline prose, Starry Messenger walks us through the scientific palette that sees and paints the world differently. From insights on resolving global conflict to reminders of how precious it is to be alive, Tyson reveals, with warmth and eloquence, an array of brilliant and beautiful truths that apply to us all, informed and enlightened by knowledge of our place in the universe.
A Macmillan Audio production from Henry Holt and Company.
Download and start listening now!
"Starry Messenger is a fascinating exploration of the relationships between science and society. Neil deGrasse Tyson sheds light in his own inimitable fashion on the complex interactions between religion, politics, gender, beauty, truth, race and war in an engaging and thought-provoking way.Tyson's distinct narration style is both captivating and inspiring. He has an impressive ability to bring vivid detail and clarity to each concept he covers for listeners of all backgrounds and levels of understanding. His measured tone conveys deep reverence for the topics covered, while also challenging listeners to think about how humankind fits into the grand scheme of things. The content itself feels like a breath of fresh air compared to other more traditional books on these issues. Tyson takes readers on an illuminating journey through history, blending together science and philosophy in unique ways that challenge long-held assumptions while still leaving room for inquiry. He also explores issues that are often overlooked or misunderstood such as beauty, truth and gender with wisdom and insight. I found this audiobook to be a very inspiring listen and his illuminating way of viewing life is a breath of fresh air!"
— quasar (5 out of 5 stars)
“Engaging as ever…He is lucidly down-to-earth and charmingly enthusiastic.”
— Washington Post“Every page is lit up by an original poetic imagination but bearing the unmistakable stamp of a rational mind, steeped in maths and science.”
— Richard Dawkins, New York Times bestselling author" This unique audiobook is an engaging mix of scientific fact and philosophical rumination on the world at large and the human condition. Tyson's discussion of such complex issues is articulate and balanced; he looks at each topic with a thoughtful eye and speaks with a deep respect for the human experience. Listening to this audiobook was enlightening as well as uplifting – it grounded me in reality while also inspiring hope for a brighter future. I found Starry Messenger to be a most intriguing listen and I'll definitely be checking out his other books soon! "
— Mark11, 1/27/2023" Starry Messenger, written (and read!) by renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, is a captivating exploration of modern civilization on Earth. With Tyson's extensive scientific and philosophical background, the listener is taken on an incredible journey through topics such as war, politics, religion, truth, beauty, gender and race. He tackles each issue with impressive clarity and insight that encourages deeper reflection and understanding. The thought provoking narrative interweaves scientific facts with philosophical musings to expand our perspective even further. Tyson's mesmerizing cadence draws the audience in even more deeply for a truly mesmerizing listening experience. His engaging style makes it easy to understand even the most complex topics while revealing the connections between them in new and fascinating ways. It's a great resource for anyone looking to gain a deeper appreciation of our world. "
— Stardusted, 1/11/2023" The Starry Messenger audiobook, written and narrated by Neil deGrasse Tyson, is a wonderful listen for anyone who seeks to see the world in a new, more rational light. In this insightful work, Tyson offers an enlightening and eye-opening outlook some of the important and contentious issues we currently face such as politics, religion, gender, and racial issues among others. At once educational and entertaining, his narration is truly stimulating. He deftly conveys complex concepts with humor and wit while generally keeping you engaged. Tyson’s vibrant energy and enthusiasm for storytelling makes this audiobook some real brain candy. It’s an engaging exploration of culture that encourages critical thinking and invites listeners to reflect on their own viewpoints in order to foster unity across all humanity. A worthy endeavor indeed! "
— Fletcher S, 12/16/2022" Neil is sometimes a bit full of himself as per usual but overall this is a rather thought provoking and engaging book. He does have rather some interesting ideas and thoughts on a variety of important social issues facing mankind. Certainly worth a listen if you have some free time. "
— Rich P2, 11/30/2022" The audiobook version of Neil deGrasse Tyson's "Starry Messenger" is truly a delight for all ages - my kids and I enjoyed it immensely. The narration by the author himself brings a level of authenticity to the production, and he has done an excellent job of making the material as engaging as possible. His enthusiasm and energy are infectious, and his knowledge and passion for science and reason make it hard to not be enthralled by what he has to say on a variety of important issues. The content of the book is rich and remarkably accessible and I feel like we all gained an important perspective. Truly a remarkable audiobook that provides stimulating intellectual nourishment as well as a deeper appreciation for humanity’s place in the universe! "
— hailsagan, 10/17/2022Neil deGrasse Tyson is an American astrophysicist, author, and science communicator. In 2017 he became the first American to win the prestigious Stephen Hawking Medal for science communication. He is the Frederick P. Rose Director of the Hayden Planetarium at the Rose Center for Earth and Space and a research associate in the Department of Astrophysics at the American Museum of Natural History. From 2006 to 2011 he hosted the educational science television show NOVA ScienceNow on PBS, and in March 2014 he became host of the television series Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey, an update of Carl Sagan’s Cosmos: A Personal Voyage. Tyson has written several New York Times bestselling nonfiction books.