In "The Age of Wonder," Richard Holmes masterfully narrates the intersection of poetry and science during the exhilarating era of British history at the turn of the 19th century. This is not merely a recount of scientific advancement; it is a vibrant tableau where the fervent pursuits of knowledge by figures such as Joseph Banks, William Herschel, and Humphry Davy are illuminated against the backdrop of the Romantic revolution. Holmes showcases how these pioneers, driven by insatiable curiosity and daring innovation, ventured into unknown territories, from the celestial depths of the universe to the core principles of chemistry, igniting a spark that would forever alter the landscape of science and culture. With a keen eye for detail and a narrative prowess that breathes life into historical figures, Holmes guides us through a period where the quest for understanding was as much an emotional endeavor as it was intellectual. "The Age of Wonder" not only charts the monumental discoveries—from the expansive heavens explored by Herschel's telescope to Davy's life-saving Safety Lamp—but also captures the profound human stories of ambition, adversity, and triumph. This book is a compelling homage to the spirit of inquiry and the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world, celebrated through the lens of those who dared to dream big and question everything.