Paul M. Sutter’s Your Place in the Universe immediately reminded me of my experience this summer in his Columbia University Pre-College course, The Origin and Evolution of the Universe (ASTO0101-D01). In both the book and the class, Dr. Sutter made the vastness of cosmology feel accessible and exciting. His ability to explain topics like the expansion of the universe, dark matter, dark energy, and general relativity with clarity and humor helped me appreciate how scientific ideas evolve through observation and creativity. Reading his book felt like continuing our

classroom discussions—filled with wonder, curiosity, and the thrill of discovery.

What I loved most about Your Place in the Universe is how it captures Dr. Sutter’s unique teaching style. He doesn’t just describe the universe; he invites readers to feel connected to it. In class, we analyzed primary research papers, solved problems, and debated ideas about how the universe began and how it might end. The book carries that same energy, balancing scientific precision with an inspiring sense of perspective about humanity’s place in the cosmos. Both in person and in writing, Dr. Sutter makes the universe feel both immense and personal, reminding us that even though we occupy a small corner of existence, our ability to explore and understand it gives our lives profound meaning.