Einstein. His Life and Universe, Walter Isaacson (ISBN 9780743264747, Simon & Schuster)

A ‘new’ biography of Einstein by Walter Isaacson came out in 2007. The first biography I read from Isaacson was the one of Steve Jobs which actually came out later, in 2011. I enjoyed the Steve Jobs biography and by looking for other books by Isaacson I came across this Einstein biography. I bought the book but then put it on the shelf because I was reading something else as usual. I had read the ‘authoritative’ biography Subtle is the Lord by Abraham Pais a long time ago the one and after that didn’t feel like I was missing something and needed to read more books on Einstein’s life. Then I discovered this book, bought it and subsequently forgot about it. When the book on Einstein’s wife came out it caused quite a big stir and I decided to get that one and read it. I wrote a post about it earlier. This then triggered me to finally pick up this book and read it. Of course, after reading Subtle is the Lord earlier there were many things I already knew. But Isaacson had access to newly discovered material which he could incorporate to draw a more complete picture of Einstein also as a private person. This biography is certainly very well written and worth your time, Isaacson is a gifted storyteller and you will be captivated by his book. Einstein is an icon of the twentieth century and probably still the most well known scientist of modern times. Isaacson doesn’t avoid some of the more recent controversy surrounding Einstein’s life. As a result the book is well balanced and his writing style and approach make it also enjoyable for those not so into the details of the physics. The book gives a good overview of Einstein’s theories and scientific struggles and the fundamental principles that guided his approach to science, philosophy and life in general.