Delightful and witty … Angier proves that our lives are enriched when we start understanding what science is all about. Michael Taube, Financial TimesAn inspiring and imaginative tour through the basics of science, from astronomy to biology and beyond. New York Times science writer Natalie Angier argues that this neglected canon should be essential knowledge like Shakespeare, Beethoven or Picasso for any cultured person, and The Canon makes these scientific fundamentals both exciting and easy to understand. The kind of science book you wish someone had placed in front of you at school. Tim Adams, Observer Think you don t need this elegant primer on the basics of science? Go on, then explain what electricity is, or DNA . . . See, told you so. Tatler The best introduction to essential science I ve read for many a year John Cornwell, Sunday Times Angier conveys the real substance of field after field, without distortion or dumbing down . . . I hope it is widely read. Steven Pinker, New York Times