This is where to start, if you're not a bit of a boffin or unused to pop. science. Very easy to read, witty and undemanding.

Concentrating more on the biology now, the history of life from the first twitching bag of chemicals to, the diverse multicellulars which roam about now. If biology interests you, it's all here.

I'm convinced Tom Fort is round the bend - the diverse distractions and tangents in this fabulous book about weather forecasting are testament to that. Loopy.

Don't judge a book by it's cover. This chronicles the myriad pollution problems we face, but not in an overly depressing we're-all-about-to-die way. The section on cheese is fantastic.

The story of William Smith, the unsung hero of geology. While detail is lacking in some parts this hugely engaging book will have you routing for Smith as he faces myriad challenges to get published.

Everything you wanted to know about the cell - interestingly written, never lingering too long and forwarding some interesting ideas and research.

If you've never heard of phage therapy, noone can blame you. This book explains why you should, and probably will soon. Also a fantastic historical text, charting the state of research under Stalin.