A Big Bang in a Little Room: The Quest to Create New Universes

In this intensely theoretical yet accessibly humanist work, science journalist Merali skillfully appraises the fascinating possibility of creating a universe in a lab. Her interviews with physicists suggest that such a thing might actually be possible, though not with current technology. Merali explains many theories about how universes might occur or be created inside our own, including false vacuums, elusive monopoles, and black holes. Amid clear explanations of mind-blowing physics concepts, Merali takes the time to humanize everyone she interviews. In particular, her discussions of religion and how scientists have managed their faith and their work are refreshingly matter-of-fact. Merali supplements the technical aspects of making a universe with the implications for how we view ourselves and our world, providing welcome context to the theories and questions she explores. Does time exist without an observer inside our universe? Is a multiverse compatible with free will? What are the ethics of potentially creating sentient life? Merali attempts to answer these and many other questions, revealing a sense of wonder and curiosity that make the book as deep and heartfelt as it is meticulous and scientific. Agent: Eileen Cope, Mark Creative Management. (Feb.)