A walk through the history of the universe, starting with the Big Bang and the creation of the elements in stars, moving through the first molecular replicators, the RNA world hypothesis, and the evolution of life by natural selection. Punctuated equilibrium. The extreme destruction caused by the asteroid that extincted the dinosaurs. The development of animal culture, except for octopuses, which are uncultured cephalopods. Human intelligence, modern civilization, and what lies ahead of us: extinction or spreading throughout the stars. And the possibility of civilization powered by black holes before the universe finally succumbs to heat death. Enjoy!