Details
Synopsis
Richard Feynman's uncanny ability to make physics attractive to non-scientists is demonstrated here, through anecdotes and more involved explanations. This unique biography offers readers the chance to explore one of the most complex minds in contemporary science.
| Size | | Length: | 301 pages | | Height: | 9.8 in | | Width: | 6.5 in | | Thickness: | 1.2 in | | Weight: | 20.8 oz |
Industry Reviews
Over the last decade, the number of books published by or about the brilliant scientist Richard Feynman constitutes what might be called "Feynmania." Conscious of this, the authors (Fire on Earth: In Search of the Doomsday Asteroid, LJ 6/1/96) begin this book by asking: "Does the world really need another book about Richard Feynman?" Obviously, they think so. They aspire to show both the ingenious scientific and quirky human sides of the man, which they do admirably. Still, their own question remains. James Gleick's Genius (LJ 10/1/92) is the definitive biography, but it may be too ponderous for some readers. More personal accounts can be found in Christopher Sykes's No Ordinary Genius (LJ 4/15/94) and in Feynman's own Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman (LJ 3/15/85). Collectively, they cover all of the territory of this new book. "Feynmaniacs" will find nothing new here, but Gribbin's work might find a niche among public library patrons. Gregg Sapp, Univ. of Miami Lib., Coral Gables
Stefanatos
Much of the information in this latest offering in Dutton's Life in Science series is redundant of the famed scientist's own remembrances (Surely You're Joking Mr. Feynman; What Do You Care What Other People Think?). Those unfamiliar with the life and work of the Nobel Prize-winning physicist, however, should find this anecdote- and science-rich study an excellent introduction. Best known for his groundbreaking work in quantum electrodynamics, Feynman was revered as an exceptional educator, teaching at such famed posts as Cornell and Cal Tech. Unconventional by the standards of both academia and science, he was also an avid drummer and amateur artist. Feynman reveled in new challenges, disdained pomposity and was not above poking fun at himself or perpetrating a practical joke on others. Here, Feynman's life is followed from his Brooklyn childhood through his work in theoretical physics; his achievements in solving such concrete problems as the Challenger disaster are detailed as well. The Gribbins (In Search of Schrodinger's Cat and more than 40 other books) convey their material in a clear, well-organized fashion, with John Gribbin's background as an astrophysicist at Cambridge University seeming to add depth and historical perspective to the discussion of Feynman's scientific accomplishments, including the easily understood explanations of Feynman's theories of quantum physics. Drawings; photos not seen by PW. BOMC selection; Library of Science and Astronomy Book Club main selections. (July)
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