Henry Hagnäs

"Death from the Skies! - These are the Ways the World Will End" by Philip Plait, Ph. D. doesn't really need any introductions since everything you need to know about its content is in the title, I wish more books were this clear and not just clever. That's not to say the content isn't clever, it is! 

Phil writes in a very easy to read and enjoy manner about the different ways the world will end, going into reasonable scientific details without making it hard for the common reader. It's a great book for anyone with a interest in physics, astronomy and catastrophic events. Asteroids, gamma ray bursts, black holes and even alien attacks are among the topics discussed. The stories are very science and reality-based so unfortunately it's not a horror-story (spoiler: We'll be fine) but its assuring to know. 

The book is a fast read at just over 300 pages and an excellent read at that. Astronomy is one of those topics I like to read about every now and then because the big numbers and exotic events gives you perspective on those little things and reminds us that we aren't even a grain on a beach when it comes to the Universe. 

For those who wan't more astronomical goodness and a general understanding on different interesting physical phenomenons, I'd like to recommend the most excellent podcast, Astronomy Cast at http://www.astronomycast.com and of course iTunes. Very professionally made with real passion for the subject, Frasier Cain and Dr. Pamela Gay explain the basics of Astronomy. Just load up your iPod and start from the beginning, you'll be glad you did!