Why we seek to fly: Books in brief

Andrew Robinson reviewed five science books in a piece published online by Nature on June 12, 2026. The reviewed books cover a range of scientific topics, including the history of flight, the evolution of human understanding of the cosmos, and the development of artificial intelligence. One book explored the persistent human drive to fly, tracing its roots from early myths to modern aviation achievements. Another volume delved into the philosophical and scientific shifts that occurred as humanity moved from a geocentric to a heliocentric view of the universe, a transition that took centuries to fully accept. A third book focused on the rapid advancements in AI, examining its potential impact on society and the ethical considerations that arise with increasingly sophisticated algorithms. The reviews highlight the authors' contributions to making complex scientific ideas accessible to a broader audience, emphasizing the importance of scientific literacy in the 21st century. Robinson's selection aims to engage readers with compelling narratives about scientific discovery and innovation.