10 Extraordinary Ideas that Shaped our Universe: From black holes to the big bang to the stardust in our fingertips

Dr Sheila Kanani is here to explain ten of the most EXTRAORDINARY ideas in science – and introduce the incredible brains that you never knew were behind them.

Each chapter explores one important idea: how it works, why it’s important, and the real story of how it was discovered. Did you know for example that Isaac Newton was influenced by scientists from the Islamic Golden Age? You’ll also hear about the unbelievable accidents behind some of these amazing ideas, as well as the mysteries that scientists are still trying to solve.

With stunning illustrations from Liz Kay, this beautiful treasury is perfect for curious kids to dip in and out of, and is packed with fascinating facts.

The ideal gift for budding scientists aged 8–12 (and the adults in their lives, too!).

Author: Dr Sheila Kanani
Format: Hardback
Pages: 160
Publisher: Penguin Random House Children's UK
Published: 3 September 2026
ISBN: 9780241739969