John Cowley features the names of Stephen Hawkins and Albert Einstein on the cover of his book “Energy and Everything”. This, and the book’s title, may evoke concern that the book may be too esoteric to be accessible and understandable. But this is not the case. In a 2014 interview with El Mundo newspaper, Hawkins decreed “In my opinion, there is no aspect of reality beyond the reach of the human mind.” and Einstein is often quoted as having said “Everything must be made as simple as possible. But not simpler.” Bringing to wider understanding issues that are core to Einstein’s and Hawkins’ province, yet in a very readable style, is obviously Dr. Cowley’s intent in writing this book. He starts by considering the structure of matter by going from what were originally seen as the four basic elements - earth, water, air and fire, - moving through to his contention that energy is the primary cohesive element holding matter and the universe together. Cowley then moves on to examine the significance of time within an unfolding but expanding universe. And, last but not least, he explores the place of life itself within this cosmic framework. The book, then, transitions from an initial analytical perspective on matter to a more philosophical consideration of the nature of our universe. Cowley, as an educator and philosopher, but principally as a scientist, has an ideal background for approaching his topic. He has adroitly covered a lot of ground, but he presents his discourse in a succinct, erudite and well-structured form which is both approachable and engaging. His trilogy's second and third books are set for release soon and are highly anticipated.