For nearly a century, scientists have developed theories to explain the origin of the Solar System and the observable Universe, but many of these theories only address certain aspects of the question. An anthology of texts compiled and analyzed by astrophysicist, cosmologist, and poet Jean-Pierre Luminet over the past decade invites readers to consider whether scientific explanations have truly moved beyond the myths about the origin of the world that appear in many cultures and have existed for thousands of years. These myths often describe creation through divine intervention or other supernatural means, and they continue to resonate with people across the globe. As early as 1871, Charles Darwin proposed that terrestrial life might have originated in a small pond, where various chemical compounds could have combined to form complex molecules. This idea, known as abiogenesis, suggests that life began through natural chemical processes rather than through divine creation. Another theory, called panspermia, suggests that life on Earth may have originated from space, perhaps carried by comets or asteroids that delivered organic molecules to the early planet. Today, the question of how life began remains one of the greatest mysteries in science. While no definitive answer has been found, many researchers lean toward Darwin’s hypothesis, focusing on the study of prebiotic chemistry—how simple molecules could have evolved into the complex structures necessary for life. Scientists are now exploring how organic compounds might have formed in the early Earth's environment or in the vastness of space, where conditions might have favored the creation of life's building blocks. Luminet’s anthology includes writings from various scientists and philosophers, offering a range of perspectives on these questions. Some contributors argue that while science has made significant progress in understanding the physical processes that led to the formation of the Solar System and the early Earth, the exact mechanism behind the emergence of life remains elusive. Others suggest that the search for answers may not only be a scientific endeavor but also a philosophical or even spiritual one, echoing the ancient myths that have long sought to explain the origins of the world.