Christian (history, Macquarie Univ.) delivers a surprisingly compact and accessible history of the universe that captures the complexity of our origins as both living organisms and modern humans. The first challenge, that of covering 13.8 billion years of history, is primarily accomplished in the book's first three parts, which divide history into a series of eight "thresholds," or key transition points that run from the Big Bang to the "Great Acceleration" of human invention in the late 20th century. The second challenge, of uniting these thresholds and justifying the "origin" project, is accomplished subtly throughout, but especially in the work's future-looking final part, which asks how we might come together to tackle foreseeable challenges to our species and planet. Christian suggests that will be the next chapter in the fascinating history of our modern origins. VERDICT An invigorating romp through time and space that brings fresh perspective to the science of human history. Highly recommended for general fans of science writing, human history, and of Christian's previous work with the Big History Project or the TED organization.—Robin Chin Roemer, Univ. of Washington Lib., Seattle