Seven Brief Lessons on Physics

by Carlo Rovelli
Seven Brief Lessons on Physics cover
Good Books rating 3.88
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  • ID: 651
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780241235973
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2015-09-24
  • Formats: 74
  • Reviews: 4

Carlo Rovelli's 'Seven Brief Lessons on Physics' is a phenomenal bestseller that has captivated readers worldwide. In under eighty pages, this book distills the complex theories of Einstein's general relativity, quantum mechanics, black holes, and the nature of the mind into accessible and enlightening insights. Rovelli's clear and engaging writing makes the transformative scientific discoveries of the twentieth century understandable and compelling for all readers. /n/nThis slim volume has been praised for its clarity and depth, making it a must-read for anyone curious about the fundamental workings of the universe. From the architecture of the cosmos to the behavior of elementary particles, Rovelli guides readers through the profound implications of these scientific revelations, offering a new perspective on our place in the world.

Reviews
Reading and Watching the World · 2024-02-18
fascinating 4.50

The book is a fascinating and accessible introduction to quantum physics that is both mind-expanding and mind-boggling.

The reviewer finds the book to be a fascinating and accessible introduction to quantum physics. They appreciate how the book manages to be both mind-expanding and mind-boggling, making complex topics understandable. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to make abstract concepts tangible and engaging. They also note that the book's brevity is a strength, allowing readers to grasp key ideas without feeling overwhelmed.

Quick quotes

    Fascinating and accessible introduction to quantum physics.

    Both mind-expanding and mind-boggling.

    The book makes abstract concepts tangible and engaging.

Amy Smart Girls · 2016-06-23
enlightening 4.00

The book makes profound concepts in physics easy to understand and even poetic. It successfully blends science with philosophical musings.

The reviewer is impressed by how the book makes complex physics concepts accessible and even poetic. They highlight the seamless blend of science and philosophy, which makes the book both educational and thought-provoking. The lessons on general relativity and quanta are particularly praised for their clarity and depth. The reviewer finds the book to be a refreshing and enlightening read.

Quick quotes

    It's a work that makes profound concepts in physics easy to understand and even poetic.

    The seven lessons focus on general relativity, quanta, and other mind-bending topics.

    The book is a beautiful blend of science and philosophy.

The New York Times · 2016-03-22
good 3.50

The book is meant to appeal to those who know little or nothing about modern science, offering a playful and entertaining introduction to complex topics.

The New York Times review notes that Seven Brief Lessons on Physics is designed to be accessible to readers with little to no background in modern science. They appreciate the playful and entertaining approach Rovelli takes, making complex topics engaging and easy to grasp. The review highlights the book's ability to spark curiosity and wonder about the universe, making it a valuable read for anyone looking to explore the mysteries of physics. They also mention that the book's brevity is one of its strengths, as it distills complex ideas into digestible lessons.

Quick quotes

    This Carlo Rovelli book is meant to appeal especially to 'those who know little or nothing about modern science.'

    It's a playful, entertaining, and mind-bending introduction to modern physics.

    The book is long on knowledge but short on pages, making it a perfect read for those looking to dip their toes into the world of physics.

The Guardian · 2015-10-11
insightful 3.50

The book excels when it remains accessible and avoids excessive technical detail. It offers a poetic and philosophical take on complex physics concepts.

The reviewer appreciates how the book simplifies profound concepts in physics, making them accessible and even poetic. They particularly enjoy the philosophical reflections intertwined with the scientific explanations. However, they note that the book works best when it doesn't delve too deeply into technical details, as this can make it less engaging for a general audience.

Quick quotes

    The theoretical physicist untangles seven topics in a short book that works best when it doesn't delve too deep.

    The book is a paean to science.

    Rovelli's prose is poetic and accessible.

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