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Described by the publisher as an "independent historian," Dyson is a good storyteller and a thought-provoking author. Chapters in this book recount tales from czarist Russia's expedition to Alaska, US warfare against Native Americans, use and culture surrounding kayaks, early digital computers, and many other historical vignettes intertwined with autobiographical sketches of growing up in the rarified atmosphere of the Princeton Institute for Advanced Study, studying and building kayaks, and choosing to live in a tree house. What ties these disparate narratives into something unified, fascinating, and deep is Dyson's uncanny ability to see (and to persuade readers of) profound recurring themes. Among these are the potential abuse of new technologies for control and destruction, Dyson's perception of a prevailing under-appreciation of the subtle effects of evolved technologies, the inherent limitations of digital as opposed to analog approaches, and the possibility of a future dominated by technologies not directly controlled by humans. Everyone should have a friend like George Dyson--he brings wonder and fresh perspectives and connections to every part of life and human history. This delightful, beautifully written book is suitable for a very wide range of readers.Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readers.