The Importance of Sir Isaac Newton (Importance of)

Rating:
Summary: Quality biography written for young people
Review: In order to be better able to understand and interact with the technical aspects of our modern world, young people need to learn about the scientists whose work made it all possible. Sir Isaac Newton is generally acclaimed as the greatest scientist who ever lived, and this is his biography written at the level of the late middle school student.
While Newton's scientific accomplishments are covered in detail, the authors quite correctly also cover the major events of the time, such as the great plague that swept through England. It is ironic that such a tragic event helped push Newton out to a location where he could do his incredible work without distraction. Newton's battles with his colleagues over priority of discovery are also covered in detail. Scientists are often portrayed as unemotional, yet here you read about some of the petty battles that go on in the profession. Rather than distracting from the story, it makes Newton appear more human.
I found the book to be an excellent biography of Newton and his times. The writing is clear, sequential and it imparts the essence of Newton's discoveries without using mathematical explanations. I strongly recommend that it be included in all middle school libraries.