In a remarkable feat of scholarly diligence, a Class 11 student from New Delhi has earned a place in the acknowledgments of a global bestseller for correcting an error that eluded millions of readers for over two decades. Bestselling American-British author Bill Bryson has formally thanked Kanishk Sharma, a student at Air Force Bal Bharati School (AFBBS), in the newly released updated edition of his acclaimed science book, A Short History of Nearly Everything 2.0.
The Discovery of a Hidden Mistake
While engrossed in the original 2003 edition of the popular science tome, Kanishk Sharma's keen eye caught an inconsistency. The book described the term 'asteroids' as a Latin word meaning 'starlike.' This detail struck the young reader as incorrect. Drawing on his knowledge, Kanishk realized that the word is actually derived from Greek, rooted in 'aster,' which means star.
Rather than simply noting the mistake, Kanishk took the initiative to contact the publisher, Penguin Random House UK, in December 2024. His well-researched communication was promptly forwarded to the author himself. Bill Bryson responded quickly, assuring the diligent student that he would review the point and, if verified, correct it in the forthcoming revised edition.
From Student Email to Published Acknowledgement
Bryson kept his promise. The latest edition of the book, released in late 2025, now carries the corrected explanation. More significantly, it includes a thank you to Kanishk Sharma for "correcting an etymological error that sat in this book for more than 20 years apparently unnoticed by anyone."
Expressing his delight to PTI, Kanishk said, "Bryson replied to my email, saying he would review my inputs and, if it was correct, he would correct it and include a mention in the acknowledgements. He kept his promise, and my name now appears in the acknowledgements of the new edition. It feels wonderful to know that I was able to contribute something that had previously gone unnoticed by millions of readers."
Recognition from School and Beyond
Kanishk's extraordinary initiative has been formally praised by his school, Air Force Bal Bharati School. Principal Sunita Gupta awarded him a letter of appreciation, highlighting the significance of his achievement in the digital age. She wrote, "In this era of screen addiction, it is refreshing to note that you are deeply engrossed in reading science fiction… It was delightful to see your name mentioned in the acknowledgments by Bill Bryson."
This story transcends a simple correction; it underscores the power of attentive reading and the courage to question established texts. It serves as an inspiration to young readers everywhere, proving that curiosity and meticulousness can lead to recognition on the world stage, even from literary giants like Bill Bryson.
