As its title suggests, A Short History of Nearly Everything (2003) is a short history of nearly everything in the world. In the book, Bryson attempts to provide short and simple explanations of otherwise seemingly inaccessible topics like chemistry, astronomy, the Big Bang, particle physics, and quantum mechanics. He wanted to do so to expand the science knowledge in the world, which he felt was lacking. Bryson explained his thought process behind creating the novel, saying: "It was as if [textbooks] wanted to keep the good stuff secret by making all of it soberly unfathomable." In explaining each of those concepts (and more), Bryson utilizes examples from history and science. He also uses examples from the lives of the scientists who made some of the most important discoveries in history.
Bryson, who was previously known for writing irreverent and well-received travel books, continued his streak with A Short History of Nearly Everything. Reviewers largely loved the book. For example, Kirkus Reviews wrote that there is "Loads of good explaining [in the book], with reminders, time and again, of how much remains unknown, neatly putting the death of science into perspective." Other reviews felt similarily and gave praise to Bryson's book for its thorough, well-researched explanations and Bryson's accessible writing style.
