What if Isaac Newton had never lived? Robert Hooke and Edmond Halley, whose place in history has been overshadowed by the giant figure of Newton, were pioneering scientists within their own right, and instrumental in establishing the Royal Society.

A sound and insightful exploration into the birth of British science that focuses on the story of Robert Hooke and Edmond Halley - two scientists that have long been overshadowed by Isaac Newton. The Gribbins argue that even without the father of the scientific revolution, Britain would have made a great leap forward, headed by these extraordinary men.