Seven Brief Lessons on Physics

by Carlo Rovelli
Seven Brief Lessons on Physics cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
Technical:
  • ID: 651
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9780241235973
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2015-09-24
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £10.99

Seven Brief Lessons on Physics offers a captivating journey through the most groundbreaking scientific discoveries of the twentieth century. In just under eighty pages, Carlo Rovelli masterfully explains complex concepts like general relativity, quantum mechanics, and the nature of black holes with remarkable clarity and simplicity. This book is not just an introduction to physics but a profound exploration of our place in the cosmos, making it accessible to both science enthusiasts and general readers alike./n/nThe book has been praised for its ability to make intricate scientific ideas understandable and engaging. It has become a global phenomenon, with readers carrying it like a 'small Bible' for its insightful and thought-provoking content. Rovelli's unique perspective and eloquent writing style make this a must-read for anyone curious about the fundamental workings of the universe.

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 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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