Death by black hole : and other cosmic quandaries

Readers of "Natural History" magazine recognise Neil deGrasse Tyson's talent for guiding them through the mysteries of the cosmos with clarity and enthusiasm.

Here, Tyson compiles his best essays across a myriad of topics.

The title essay introduces readers to the physics of black holes, "Holy Wars" examines the needless friction between science and religion in the context of historical conflicts and "Hollywood Nights" assails the movie industry's feeble efforts to get its night skies right.