**Builder of Heavens: The Extraordinary Tale of Eise Eisinga and His Planetarium**
Books often enter our lives in unforeseen ways, sometimes sent directly by authors and publishers eager to share their latest creations. Each volume possesses its unique allure, whether it be solicited review editions from reputable publishers or tokens of appreciation from authors who cherish one’s feedback on their artistic endeavors. At times, a book appears unexpectedly, dispatched by someone who simply thinks it would be valued.
Recently, such a pleasure was received from Arjen Dijkstra, the head of Tresoar, Museum, Archive and Library Fryslân. Though our communications have been exclusively digital, Arjen’s considerate act was a reflection of our mutual enthusiasm. The book, the English rendition of his original Dutch work, is “Builder of Heavens: How Eise Eisinga Created the Greatest Planetarium of his Time.”
Dijkstra’s creation is an exemplary piece of contextual narrative history, aptly termed a scholarly novel. This literature is not only exquisitely written but is also supported by comprehensive research. The book presents readers with Franeker in Friesland, a town steeped in a rich heritage of mathematics and astronomy, laying the groundwork for the story of Eisinga—a wool comber enamored with the cosmos.
Eisinga’s planetarium, an impressive accomplishment of amateur engineering, graces the ceiling of his living room, with its clockwork mechanism taking seven years to finish. The biography develops to encapsulate Eisinga’s life, spanning academia, politics, and his involvement in an insurrection that resulted in exile and eventual return. Dijkstra’s narrative delves into Eisinga’s political revival and the rising prominence of his planetarium, a testament to both his aspirations and the scientific curiosity of the era.
The planetarium was nationalized and recognized as part of the nation’s legacy, achieving the status of a world cultural treasure in 2023. Dijkstra’s book is visually enhanced by illustrations and schematics of the planetarium, enriching the detailed narrative of its creator’s life and impact.
In conclusion, “Builder of Heavens” is a wealth of knowledge for anyone interested in the history of science, astronomy, or Dutch heritage. It is also a delight for any reader who values a well-crafted tale that enlightens, entertains, and sparks interest. Whether you are a history buff or simply relish outstanding non-fiction, Dijkstra’s biography of Eise Eisinga is an exhilarating experience that is undoubtedly worthwhile.
[1] Arjen Dijkstra, *Builder of Heavens: How Eise Eisinga Created the Greatest Planetarium of his Time*, Translated by Liz Waters, Noorboek, 2025.