Physics Science

Quite frankly, this is the best book of its genre that I have ever read!

Clear, concise, easy to understand (as easy to understand as four dimensional space-time and parallel universes are), fun to read, funny and the narration, like that of a conversation; absolutely superb. This, along with personal views and experiences, gives this book a unique feel like no other.

What I think is so wonderful about this book is the way in which Mr. Al-Khalili doesn’t just simply talk about black holes, wormholes and time machines (!). There’s a lot more to it than that. Many other aspects of Physics, from Einstein’s theories of relativity, super dense material called cosmic string, to the theory of everything not to mention quantum mechanics are all discussed. It’s sheer brilliance the way in which he illustrates how all these things tie-up and are related, through the central focus of the book. Of course, relating everything from atoms to the universe is exactly what Physics is all about, but it is not always easy to see how. Mr. Al-Khalili does this very well.

I also liked the section exploring the science fact behind the science fiction. I was particularly impressed by the profound thought which went into explaining and elaborating upon the Terminator paradox (I’m sure you’ve all thought about it as well) – if Arnie had succeeded in killing Mrs. Connor, then John would never have been born; but if John hadn’t been born, then there would never have been any need to send someone back to kill Mrs. Connor; so Mrs. Connor would not have been killed, and so John would have been born. HEH? This is where parallel universes and quantum mechanics comes in to save the day. This is the first time I’ve come across this idea, and it’s fascinating to say the least. All good stuff!

In the week it took me to read “Black Holes, Wormholes and Time Machines”, I spent more time reading than doing my schoolwork! (and a lot of schoolwork is the norm for a hardworking student like myself) – the book is that addictive!

Mr. Al-Khalili has done himself and the university of Surrey proud with an absolutely outstanding book, which is a must read for the interested `layperson’ and Physics student alike.

Mr. Al-Khalili plans to publish another book in about two years time (on quantum mechanics), and I for one can’t wait. In the meantime, I think I’ll read “Black Holes, Wormholes and Time Machines” over again a couple more times, just for the fun of it!
Rating: 5 / 5

…but it opens again after lunch.” This quote from a student characterizes Jim Al-Khalili’s “Black Holes, Wormhols, and Time Machines” very well. The book is only one among many which try to convey Einstein’s theories and the concepts of space and time to a general audience. It is certainly one of the most entertaining and also scientifically up to date.

The first part of the book deals with “space”. The well-established use of 2d world helps the reader to cope with multidimensional spaces and the warping of space by mass. Already in chapter 3 (cosmology) the reader is confronted with the borders of secure scientific knowledge. A chapter about black holes concludes this part. The second part is devoted to “time”, probably the most difficult part of the book. Entropy and the arrow of time are discussed, and the twin paradox is extensively introduced (finally a good description!). And what about time travel? Is is possible? Is there “only one universe” out there? I guess your personal imagination of a time machine looks like the one shown in the movie along the novel of H.G. Wells. Jim Al-Khalili’s doesn’t. This third part, “wormholes and time machines”, is the most speculative. The underlying possible physics is nonetheless discussed with no trouble, stimulating the reader to go on. Finally, even the most advanced sting and membrane theories are discussed.

One might blame the author for the lack of scientific structure of the book. The clear separation of space and time (instead of discussing the 4-dim spacetime) is maintained throughout nearly its entire first part. However, this sacrifice of theoretical strictness will certainly be appreciated by the reader. I would have preferred a few more illustrations in the book to explain the eloquent discription.

Whether the book will be an account even for the “not-so-interested” layperson, has to be questioned. The easy language might nonetheless attract especially the younger generation. The “interested” layperson might also be a be puzzled by the many speculative elements of this book – in contrast to the “hard facts” that are usually subject of popular science books. But for all those who take interest in and enjoy to contemplate on what is possible in our nature – from both a scientific and philosophical standpoint – will find in Al-Khalili’s book an entertaining and thorough description of modern physics.
Rating: 5 / 5

Al-Khalili effectively explains the principles and mechanics of black holes, multi-dimensional space, etc., with plain talk and a light touch of humor that never obscures or waters down the real science. A cover-to-cover gem.
Rating: 5 / 5