Quantum- Manjit Kumar

This book was a marathon from start to finish and I loved it. I picked this book out at random from the bookshelf and boy am I glad I did. This is a narrative history of the debates surrounding Quantum physics, not really the natural choice for an English student. Many of my friends expressed their surprise when I mentioned that I was reading this book, one memorable reaction being "But you aren't scientifically minded." Granted, I started this book with little or no scientific understanding of quantum physics and yet by the end I can safely say that I could hold my own in a conversation on Albert Einstein and Niels Bohr's differing theories. Reading something outside of my comfort zone made turning the final few pages that little bit more rewarding.

What I will say, is that you have to be committed to reading this book in order to see it through the complicated scientific explanations that are crucial to an understanding of the history. I despaired over the first few chapters as I had to read a couple of sentences at least three times. Manjit Kumar helps you along by painting the history in such a colourful and passionate way, that by the final pages it is not only the science that you begin to understand, but the scientists themselves. This book taught me that I myself have been narrow minded in my view of physicists. I didn't realize the imagination and artistry that goes into new theories and turned the last page with a new found respect for Einstein and Bohr that shouldn't be restricted to students of science.

Reading is something that should never be defined by the person everyone thinks you are. I have always felt strongly that there should be no snobbishness in reading. If you want to read classics then fine, but if you get enjoyment from reading fantasy then that is great too. Just because you love Jane Austen doesn't mean that you shouldn't read Terry Pratchett or Bill Bryson. A well rounded reader makes for a well rounded person who isn't afraid of a challenge. I loved my week in the world of physics and the growing excitement of wondering where I am going to be next week, perhaps the world of astronomy or even on a different planet entirely. Reading offers an escapism that is so often forgotten in the hunt for a library of fancy books that will make people look up to you as a person of great knowledge and wisdom. Once in a while, it is fun to go for something crazy, learn a thing or two, and maybe you will appreciate the fancy books a little more when you get back to them.

Verdict: A tough read for those of us who aren't used to the scientific jargon but Kumar carefully guides his readers through a gripping read. Recommended for the adventurous readers who are in search of something that will blow you away.