Why Don’t Things Fall Up?

‘This book is officially for adults but would also be really interesting to older teenagers. Somehow Alom has, very cleverly, extended a primary school answer to questions such as ‘why is the sky blue?’ into in depth and accurate explanations without ever patronising the reader or leaving them behind.’ – Caroline Fielding, Teen Librarian


Readers are loving Why Don’t Things Fall Up?:
‘Captures the heart and soul of science.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Why Don’t Things Fall Up? is that rare thing: a popular science book that doesn’t preach to the choir.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Excellent book for both myself and my teenager…devoured in days.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Buy it, you won’t be disappointed.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Alom Shaha’s mission is to show that science is one of humanity’s greatest cultural achievements, which can enrich our lives in the same way as art, music, and literature.

So he wrote the acclaimed Why Don’t Things Fall Up? to deliver what he believes every adult and schoolchild deserves, but rarely gets: an authoritative and accessible exploration of the key ideas in science.

Alom is the ideal guide to this world. He is acknowledged as one of our best science communicators, having worked with leading scientific institutions and scientists to help them explain their ideas and work to the public. Perhaps more importantly, he has a wealth of classroom teaching experience, and has spent decades teaching these ideas to thousands of young people. He really knows how to make science come alive, whether you’re already fascinated or struggling to grasp the fundamentals.

In seven chapters, each starting with a simple question, Alom takes us on a journey to understand everything from the physics of space and matter to the biology of our bodies – and even the origins of life itself.

Why Don’t Things Fall Up? answers the big questions about life and the universe in a way that makes us realise that science is the most exciting story ever told.

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‘Shaha’s lucid enthusiasm makes complex ideas graspable. It’s an ideal resource for curious readers – especially those who don’t like science – and their parents. Think Richard Feynman for KS4’ – Tom Tolkien, School Reading List

‘A great idea, beautifully executed.’ – Popular Science

‘A book of quiet wonder.’ – Ian Dunt

‘I have learnt (and remembered) so much, and so easily. It’s the mango ice cream of science books.’ – Hilary McKay

‘Everything Alom writes is a joy to ponder, his love of science is utterly contagious, the perfect guide through things that might perplex.’ – Robin Ince

‘A joyful exploration of fundamental questions about our world; Shaha proves that science is for everyone!’ – Roma Agrawal

‘Friendly, informative and such fun to read.’ – Christopher Edge

‘Alom Shaha is the science teacher many people will wish they had but didn’t.’ – Philip Ball


‘A gentle and reassuring journey through school science, perfect for polishing up both long-forgotten knowledge and confidence, and helping everyone to make science a part of their world.’ – Helen Czerski

‘This is a fantastic book, incredibly clearly written. Amongst many fascinating things, I learned exactly why/how mirrors reflect! Perfect for older kids but also great Christmas gift for curious adults, get your pre-orders in!’ – Dr Rebecca Wragg Sykes