'This is a great first book for diving into astronomy, and even better for an update on the Big One, "Is there life in the universe?"' Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, University of Sydney 'This is a book for the curious mind . . . it contains the breadth and detail to answer the questions of even the most inquisitive of readers.' Professor Brian P. Schmidt, winner of the 2011 Nobel Prize in Physics 'A must-read . . . filled with delightful analogies that make learning about space digestible and fun for everyone.' Kirsten Banks, Astrophysicist & Science Communicator With a PhD in astrophysics, Dr Matt is a self-proclaimed 'space nerd' and is passionate about communicating science in an interesting and accessible way. Dr Matt explores the qualities that make planet Earth special before moving ahead to traverse what we're beginning to know about other special places for life in the solar system. And what about beyond, in other star systems? How do we even begin to look that far away? Having investigated what we do know and what we're on the brink of knowing, Dr Matt's imagination runs wild as he addresses what we don't know. Where are the aliens? How common are they? Have we spotted any? And if not, why not? 'A fascinating journey to unravel the secrets of life.' Professor Lisa Harvey-Smith, Australian Government Women in STEM Ambassador 'Dr Matt has a rare gift in making the cosmically complex not just understandable but fun.' Professor Alan Duffy, Director of the Space Technology and Industry Institute, Swinburne