Rating: 
Summary: Absolutely Satisfying
Review: This has been the first time in ages that I've read a book for hours on end.The first time I opened it,I read for hours,and forgot to do my homework!I was completely absorbed in it.The authors tells you more than just Einstein's theories and ideas.His book spans people's beliefs and theories which sometimes lead to the questioning of already accepted laws in science, through classical physics and modern.He shows you the ups and downs to theories and laws,the brilliant ideas along with a few mistakes ('Hey,even geniuses make mistakes') and explains why some theories make sense while others would not.
I would reccomend this book to anyone,a lover of physics already or not,because reading this book will certainly make you one,or at least open your mind up as to what you're missing.
A wonderful read and superbly entertaining.Thought provoking and satisfying.
Rating:
Summary: A "must have" for all physical science teachers!
Review: This work is excellent, whether you are reading it as supplemental for high school or college or because of an actual interest in Einstein. As a high school chemistry and physics teacher, I was searching for a something to help me explain "special relativity". What I found was a book that would help me teach a wide array of topics, from Kepler and Newton's laws to electromagnetic energy. There are three aspects of the book that I find most useful. First, being a "complete idiot's guide" means that it is written without being overly scientific. It allows the reader to understand these sometimes difficult topics without having a doctoral degree AND provides interest. Secondly, the integration of the history makes for a multidisciplinary approach similar to what I aim for in my teaching. If science and math are not your "true loves", then the historical and anecdotal notes will reach you. Thirdly, I especially think that the author's ultimately succeeds at his attempt to call for not just tolerance but understanding...whether it be for different theories or different cultures. There is only one "bone" to pick. In the section on chemical bonding, the author fails to mention that Mendeleev's periodic table is not the one that we use today. Mendeleev organized his table based on increasing atomic mass, which is mentioned in the book. However, our table is based on increasing atomic number, thanks to Henry Moseley (who is not mentioned). This fact is often overlooked. Yet, as a chemistry major, I must fight for Moseley's right to be recognized for this vital contribution. But one omission does not detract from the overall superiority of the book. This book is a "must have" for all physical science teachers!
Rating:
Summary: A "must have" for all physical science teachers!
Review: This work is excellent, whether you are reading it as supplemental for high school or college or because of an actual interest in Einstein. As a high school chemistry and physics teacher, I was searching for a something to help me explain "special relativity". What I found was a book that would help me teach a wide array of topics, from Kepler and Newton's laws to electromagnetic energy. There are three aspects of the book that I find most useful. First, being a "complete idiot's guide" means that it is written without being overly scientific. It allows the reader to understand these sometimes difficult topics without having a doctoral degree AND provides interest. Secondly, the integration of the history makes for a multidisciplinary approach similar to what I aim for in my teaching. If science and math are not your "true loves", then the historical and anecdotal notes will reach you. Thirdly, I especially think that the author's ultimately succeeds at his attempt to call for not just tolerance but understanding...whether it be for different theories or different cultures. There is only one "bone" to pick. In the section on chemical bonding, the author fails to mention that Mendeleev's periodic table is not the one that we use today. Mendeleev organized his table based on increasing atomic mass, which is mentioned in the book. However, our table is based on increasing atomic number, thanks to Henry Moseley (who is not mentioned). This fact is often overlooked. Yet, as a chemistry major, I must fight for Moseley's right to be recognized for this vital contribution. But one omission does not detract from the overall superiority of the book. This book is a "must have" for all physical science teachers!
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