When We Cease to Understand the World

by Benjamín Labatut; translated by Adrian Nathan West
When We Cease to Understand the World cover
Good Books rating 3.67
Technical:
  • ID: 689
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2025-09-19
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Stargazer Online · 2021-05-31
frustrating 2.50

The book's exploration of science and genius is captivating, but the writing style may not appeal to everyone. The author's approach is both intriguing and frustrating.

The reviewer finds the themes of science and genius in the book to be fascinating, but they also express some frustration with the author's style. They suggest that the book's appeal might be limited by its writing approach, which could be polarizing for some readers. While the subject matter is compelling, the execution falls short of being universally engaging. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the topics covered but feels that the narrative could have been more accessible.

Quick quotes

    Most people seem to love this book, which may be due to the fact that both science and the genius mind are fascinating topics.

    If the author had just stuck to the science and the genius mind, this could have been a great book.

    The writing style is frustrating and not everyone will enjoy it.

Tony's Reading List · 2021-05-20
fascinating 4.50

The book is praised for its compelling short pieces that jump around in time, making it a fascinating read. The structure adds to the overall intrigue.

The reviewer is highly impressed with the book's structure and content. They appreciate how the short pieces jump around in time, creating a sense of intrigue and fascination. The reviewer finds the book's approach to storytelling unique and engaging, making it a standout read. The blend of historical and scientific elements is particularly noteworthy, adding layers of depth to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    When We Cease to Understand the World is a fascinating book, with a compelling series of short pieces that jump around in time.

    The structure of the book adds to the overall intrigue.

    The blend of historical and scientific elements is particularly noteworthy.

The Guardian · 2020-09-10
extraordinary 4.00

This 'non-fiction novel' weaves a dark and intricate web connecting quantum mechanics and the horrors of war. It's a powerful exploration of the darker side of science.

The reviewer describes the book as an extraordinary 'non-fiction novel' that masterfully connects the founders of quantum mechanics with the evils of two world wars. They highlight the book's ability to delve into the darker aspects of scientific discovery and its impact on humanity. The reviewer is captivated by the book's exploration of the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by scientists, making it a thought-provoking and haunting read.

Quick quotes

    An extraordinary 'non-fiction novel' weaves a web of associations between the founders of quantum mechanics and the evils of two world wars.

    It is a powerful exploration of the darker side of science.

    The book delves into the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by scientists.

Appears in Lists