Journey by Starlight: A Time Traveler’s Guide To Life, the Universe, and Everything

In an intricate and detailed comic, Albert Einstein is recruited to tell the story of the makings of the universe, in just a little over 200 pages. Einstein zooms through the cosmos, filling in his nameless travel companion on not only how the universe works, but also about the people behind the theories and ideas that helped move society past fear and superstition of the sciences. The comic is based on Flitcroft’s blog, “Journey by Starlight,” which breaks down major scientific concepts for the everyday reader and is filled with enthusiastic illustrations from Britt Spencer. Every panel is packed with information and minute detail, and filled with humor that keeps the pace feeling speedy, even when the concepts are complicated and drawn out. The use of Einstein feels forced at times, with Flitcroft packing his own earnestness into Einstein’s image, but Flitcroft’s mission to make science more accessible is sincere. Even if this story isn’t a light read, it has the potential to open up physics and the realm of Einstein to unsuspecting comics fans, which means Flitcroft’s journey is a success. (Mar.)