12 Best Stephen Hawking Books to Read in 2025

We rank Stephen Hawking books, exploring his brilliant mind. Discover the cosmos with ease and some laughter along the way.
A Brief History of Time coverThe Universe in a Nutshell coverBlack Holes and Baby Universes and Other Essays cover

When it comes to unraveling the mysteries of the universe, few authors stand out like Stephen Hawking. His books have enlightened readers across generations. We’ve crafted a list of the top Stephen Hawking books to guide you through the cosmos. Picked based on accessibility, innovative ideas, and the humor that sometimes sneaks in, our list includes everything from mind-bending theories to personal tales. Whether you’re a science newbie or a seasoned reader, there’s a Hawking book for you.

On this list:

12 A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking

A Brief History of Time cover

  • Genre: Non-fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1988
  • Pages: 256

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This book is a classic. It explains time, space, black holes, and more in simple terms.

11 The Universe in a Nutshell by Stephen Hawking

The Universe in a Nutshell cover

  • Genre: Non-fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 2001
  • Pages: 224

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Hawking takes us on a cosmic journey. The illustrations are stunning!

10 Black Holes and Baby Universes and Other Essays by Stephen Hawking

Black Holes and Baby Universes and Other Essays cover

  • Genre: Non-fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 1993
  • Pages: 192

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This is a collection of essays. It’s perfect if you enjoy short reads.

9 The Grand Design by Stephen Hawking and Leonard Mlodinow

The Grand Design cover

  • Genre: Non-fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2010
  • Pages: 208

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Hawking and Mlodinow tackle the existence of the universe. Heavy stuff!

8 My Brief History by Stephen Hawking

My Brief History cover

  • Genre: Autobiography
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2013
  • Pages: 144

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A glimpse into Hawking’s life, with stories and photos. Short but sweet!

7 On the Shoulders of Giants: The Great Works of Physics and Astronomy by Stephen Hawking

On the Shoulders of Giants: The Great Works of Physics and Astronomy cover

  • Genre: Non-fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 2002
  • Pages: 1264

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Hawking shares works from geniuses like Newton. A history lesson!

6 George’s Secret Key to the Universe by Lucy and Stephen Hawking

  • Genre: Children’s Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 2007
  • Pages: 336

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A children’s book that explains science in a fun way. Great for kids!

5 George and the Big Bang by Lucy and Stephen Hawking

George and the Big Bang cover

  • Genre: Children’s Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 2011
  • Pages: 368

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A sequel to ‘George’s Secret Key.’ Kids learn about the universe.

4 The Theory of Everything: The Origin and Fate of the Universe by Stephen Hawking

The Theory of Everything: The Origin and Fate of the Universe cover

  • Genre: Non-fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2002
  • Pages: 176

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Hawking outlines his thinking on the cosmos. It’s like a mini masterclass.

3 God Created the Integers: The Mathematical Breakthroughs That Changed History by Stephen Hawking

God Created the Integers: The Mathematical Breakthroughs That Changed History cover

  • Genre: Non-fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 2005
  • Pages: 1160

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This one is for the math enthusiasts. Hawking celebrated great mathematicians.

2 Brief Answers to the Big Questions by Stephen Hawking

Brief Answers to the Big Questions cover

  • Genre: Non-fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2018
  • Pages: 256

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Hawking answers the universe’s biggest questions. Short and insightful.

1 A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking

A Brief History of Time cover

  • Genre: Non-fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1988
  • Pages: 256

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

This book changed how we see the universe. Its simplicity and depth are unmatched. A must-have.

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!