To write a book to explain in simple, non-mathematical terms what superstring theory is is not a simple task. In The Elegant Universe Brian Greene, a physicist who works in the area, does a very good job. Superstrings are a theory of particle physics that lays claim to being the ultimate "Theory of Everything", merging Einstein's relativity and quantum mechanics into an understanding of the physics of the very small and very large in the Universe. Hence to understand superstrings relativity, quantum mechanics have to be explained as well. In this Brian Greene does a very good job, giving one of the best explanations of relativity I have read in the process. Superstring theory is still very much in its infancy and The Elegant Universe does not claim that all the problems have been solved, in fact a point is made of pointing out all the present deficiencies of the theory.

Probably not a book for the very beginner but anyone who has read popular accounts of particle physics and relativity should gain a lot from reading this book. In places not an easy read, not for style reasons(which was generally very easy) but simply for the difficulty of some of the concepts involved. Superstring theory may or may not be the theory of everything but this book will certainly tell you what we think we know so far. Definitely recommended but don't expect to read it in a weekend. --Simon Goodwin

Everyone who is curious about the horizons of theoretical physics?past, present, and future?will enjoy this book.

[A] beautifully crafted account of string theory...a delightful; read for the professional.

[A] tour-de-force of science writing...peels away layers of detail and reveals the stunning essence of cutting-edge physics.

In the great tradition of physicists writing for the masses, [Greene] sets a standard that will be hard to beat.

A] well-written account?without equations?from the forefront of cosmology and physics.

An admirable job of translating a wholly mathematical endeavor into visual terms.

Brian Greene...makes the terribly complex theory of strings accessible to all.

Compulsively readable....Greene threatens to do for string theory what Stephen Hawking did for black holes.

As rewarding as it gets....A thrilling ride through a lovely landscape.

2008-08-23 Great Explanation of Superstrings and More!

I am an engineer by education and experience. Like many engineers I am fascinated with the subject of quantum mechanics, superstrings, hidden dimensions, the quest for the theory of everything, parallel universes and more. Much of it isn't easy to understand, but it sure is fun!

For years I had been hearing about superstrings. I have read In Search of Schrödinger's Cat, Schrödinger's Kittens, books on Einstein's theories, and more. I have also read articles on these subjects, watched several amazing TV shows and movies. Some teased the idea of superstrings, but I never came away with a feeling that the concept had been explained properly.

Brian Green's book the Elegant Universe, and the subsequent PBS show does just that! It gives the best explanation of superstrings I have read (and seen) to date. Green also does a great job explaining parallel universes, hidden dimensions, quest for the ultimate theory and more.

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