Best known as the host of the popular television series Cosmos, scientist Sagan offered to the world his talent for cross-disciplinary research, his vivid imagination, and nonstop enthusiasm. This concise, lively biography examines Sagan's growth as a scientist and as a communicator. Separate chapters are devoted to his interest in the origin of life, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, and his work on the show. There are also sections on his public advocacy for science, and his role as an activist for the environment and the safe use of atomic power. B&w photos depict Sagan's career highlights, but there are none from his personal life. This updated, paperback edition contains many new photos, as well as textual additions by Ann Druyan, his third wife and collaborator. Spangenburg and Moser are veteran science writers. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)