From School Library Journal
Starred Review. Grade 5-8–While the myriad photographs are fascinating, the bigger draw here is the wonderfully simple explanations of some of Einstein's theories. For example, in clarifying the physicist's quantum theory of light, Delano says, "Simply put, Einstein showed that photons in the light beam knock the electrons out of metal." And, to make the concept of spacetime easier to understand, she asks readers to contemplate spacetime as a trampoline with a bowling ball resting on it. This visual perception helps to make the theory understandable for all students. The black-and-white and sepia photographs follow Einstein from boyhood to old age and show him in a variety of settings: at the blackboard, delivering a speech, taking the oath of U.S. citizenship, in his Princeton home with children who survived the Holocaust, and so on. Many have appeared elsewhere. Cartoon illustrations add to the clarity of the very readable text. Personal thoughts and feelings abound. To make Einstein human to the audience, his mistakes are mentioned, as well as his celebrity. Complete quote sources are appended. An introduction by Evelyn Einstein, the scientist's granddaughter, is included. This entertaining effort displays clarity and intelligence. It has plenty of information for reports and is also a good choice for browsing.
–Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
--This text refers to the
Hardcover
edition.
*Starred Review* Gr. 5-8. There are plenty of books about Einstein, but this one combines a solid text with a particularly attractive format. Delano moves briskly through Einstein's life, clearing up misconceptions along the way (he was not a bad student as some have claimed). She does not delve too deeply into his relationships or motives, but she brings him to life so that readers come to care about Einstein as a person, not simply see him as a genius. Delano offers just enough information about Einstein's theories to give a sense of his work, keeping in mind that his ideas go over the heads of most people. What is particularly impressive, however, is the format. Oversize and filled with well-selected photographs, the book is very handsome. Many of the photos and quotes are placed against aged-looking paper, with Einstein's writings and formulas just visible on its surface. The background color meshes perfectly with the sepia tone of many of the photos. Quotes are sourced, and appended material includes a chronology and list of resources. Because this year marks the 100th anniversary of the theory of relativity, we'll see many books about Einstein. This one is sure to be among the best.
Ilene CooperCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
--This text refers to the
Hardcover
edition.
