Rachel and I were having a quick snack at the Hong Kong airport between flights and the book was already at the printers. I managed to get online for a quick email check and saw the note from the Gates people saying Bill Gates might be willing to write a blurb for the new printing of David Christian’s book This Fleeting World. Last night, here in Beijing, I received the recommendation you’ll see below. We are delighted to learn that one of the best-known people in the world (everyone we talk to in China recognizes the name “Bill Gates,” without any explanation required), whose own book is called The Road Ahead, understands the importance of studying the past and shares our enthusiasm for the work of David Christian.

I first became an avid student of David Christian by watching his course, Big History, on DVD. So, I am very happy to see his enlightening presentation of the world’s history captured in these essays. I hope it will introduce a wider audience to this gifted scientist and teacher. –Bill Gates

To get this on the cover, I literally had to hold the presses. Somehow it worked, but I remember Rachel’s face when I said, “Just a second, I have to send another email.”