One of the world’s most interesting thinkers investigates the large, the small, and everything in between.

The term polymath is overused these days, but in Smil’s case, it is appropriate. He is currently a professor of environmental studies at the University of Manitoba, but his research interests—and the dozens of books he has written (How the World Really Works, Numbers Don’t Lie, Oil: A Beginner’s Guide, etc.)—cover subjects ranging from technology and energy to psychology and art. Here, the author skillfully synthesizes a wealth of material to help explain the world and our place in it. He notes that humans have always been impressed by giant things, whether naturally occurring or of human design. The reasons are not entirely clear, but Smil suggests that there are elements of inspiration, intimidation, shock, and awe. He tracks the history of big constructions, from Stonehenge to skyscrapers, and provides a fascinating chapter on the limits on size imposed by materials, construction methods, and economics. Even in the age of environmental awareness, there is still a preference for bigness—e.g., cars and TVs. Smil also examines how the concept of averages was developed and deployed across society. Somehow, he even manages to make a section on the formulae used to establish deviations from norms interesting and accessible. He throws in an array of factoids, such as the above-average height of the CEOs of large corporations, the ergonomics of airline seats, and the mountains of money amassed by a few people. At the other end of the scale, he examines the very small, looking at molecular construction and how microchips work. Along the way, he provides an analysis of relative sizes in Gulliver’s Travels and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. As Smil acknowledges, there is no finale of condensed wisdom in the concluding chapter, but no matter: The journey itself is an appealing and informative ride.

Smil packs entire worlds into entertaining, colorful, pleasing packages.