Like all books on the subject, Our Universe is full of images of exploding stars and colliding galaxies. There are powers and distances beyond human comprehension. Darkness surrounds us as we discover most of this place we live in is not available to our eyes and senses.

It's all very nice, but you want more than just another “science on parade” book. There is a much more profound story hidden in the beautiful images spread over the scientific world. Everything known to us comes from the Universe. If this is correct, can the Universe answer questions about meaning and purpose?

The answer is, yes. In the past 25 years, we have learned more about the Universe than in all recorded history. This explosion of knowledge is due to three disruptive forces: the personal computer, the Internet and the great space and land-based telescopes. It is now possible to tell the story of the Universe in 21st-century language and images that any interested layman can follow.

Using these tools, the secrets of this extraordinary place are being laid bare. The Universe is ready to answer our questions. We are prepared to listen.

I pose three questions for the Universe to answer. Who am I? What is our home? What is the purpose of my life? It's a tall order for any book.

Our Universe uses the vehicle of science, astronomy, cosmology and the different ways humans know reality to allow the reader to answer these personal questions. These threads are woven into a tapestry revealing the Universe in all its glory.

We don't know everything, but we know enough. The way forward is clear. The journey is from where we are now back in time to the beginning and perhaps a moment before, to what I call the Mystery. Then we will turn around and watch this Unknowable come into being as our Universe. The evolution of the Universe will be before our eyes. There lie the answers.

The Mystery is not knowable or describable in any fashion, yet the trajectory of our story sends us squarely into its midst. It's where science, human language, and concepts fail. Despite this, it is our heritage. We must deal with Mystery, or we will forever be unfulfilled.

One of the discoveries will be to realize how all knowledge and the material world are directly related. Their origins will be apparent. The Big Bang will be found to be a process and not an event. It is still becoming not only in the world around us but within as well. There are no smoke and mirrors. It is a non-fiction story you can see for yourself. The facts and conclusion are easily checked, and the reader will not have to cross their fingers or set their minds aside to appreciate the story.

Come along for the Journey into Mystery. This is the story I always wanted to write. It is the story hopefully, you are looking to discover.

Jeff Jones