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tinito's review
4.0
A very good book on the topic. While it requires a rudimentary understanding of QM it is still very accessible. The only problem was the editing. 4.5 stars.
stoicloofah's review against another edition
4.0
The first half of this book (through interpretations of quantum mechanics) is quite good. Al-Kahlili explains the history, experiments, and nature of quantum mechanics in a clear, layman's manner. Oftentimes, explanations can become more complicated when not relying on the math, but he does it clearly. He also honestly acknowledges the gaps, points out common misconceptions, and addresses reasonable objections.
The second half of this book is not as strong: he covers a wider variety of topics and applications, which is somewhat more disconnected. Also, that information is perhaps more out-of-date than the first half. You can probably skip around through a lot of that, but I do recommend you at least read the last 2 pages on quantum transportation since I think it is clearly explained and a nice wrap.
The second half of this book is not as strong: he covers a wider variety of topics and applications, which is somewhat more disconnected. Also, that information is perhaps more out-of-date than the first half. You can probably skip around through a lot of that, but I do recommend you at least read the last 2 pages on quantum transportation since I think it is clearly explained and a nice wrap.
bookclubdropout's review against another edition
5.0
This was published in 2003, so some of the future looking stuff is probably out of date, but it’s a great explainer, with Al-Khalili’s clear and entertaining text and big colour pictures. 5*
frakalot's review
4.0
It took me a little to get stuck into it, but I enjoyed Jim's approach in the end. A reasonable description of some key theoretical interpretations with an honest approach.
euangepp's review
3.0
Maybe not the best starting point for someone interested in quantum physics as I relied on my A-level textbook to explain all of the basics to me. In some places the author seemed to assume a lot of knowledge in specific areas of physics (all of the discussion about elementary forces and particles) but at other points he moved through the content very slowly. A lot of ground is covered and that makes it feel quite hectic and disjointed in parts. All together not a bad book but maybe don’t start with it.
Edit: Second Reading (interview things). Didn't enjoy it any more but it was easier to understand the second time round.
Edit: Second Reading (interview things). Didn't enjoy it any more but it was easier to understand the second time round.
briarfairchild's review
5.0
I LOVED this book. Actually, I love quantum physics altogether, even though this is only the second book I've read about it. I thought it was really good, though. The author manages to write about some extremely complex theories in a way that a non-mathematician can (more-or-less) understand. It was fascinating, too, to learn about the different theories that try to explain why the quantum world is the way it is. There was also some great content on the potential future of quantum technology. All in all a fascinating, challenging and rewarding read.
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