If you are just starting out on the path of learning physics, there is no better way to do so than by reading a book.
With so many books to choose from, it can be difficult to know which ones are the best for beginners.
That’s where we come in! We have compiled a list of some of the best books that will help you learn physics and get started on your journey.
Here are the best books to learn physics
A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking
Stephen Hawking’s A Brief History of Time is a revolutionary book on cosmology and theoretical physics.
First published in 1988, this best-selling work became an international sensation, introducing the complexities of modern science to general audiences around the world.
In it, Hawking explores some of the most perplexing questions about our universe’s origins and its ultimate fate: Does time have a beginning and end? What is space-time? How did the universe begin? Is there proof for multiple universes?
With his ability to distill complex theories into comprehensible language, Hawking provided readers with unprecedented insight into science that had only been explored by experts in academia before.
His work even made an impact on popular culture as it was featured in films such as The Theory of Everything and The Time Traveler’s Wife.
Black Hole Survival Guide by Janna Levin
The universe holds many mysteries, none more mysterious than black holes. For those looking to explore the depths of space and its greatest enigmas, Janna Levin’s book ‘Black Hole Survival Guide’ is a must-read.
Through her engaging narrative style and vivid descriptions, Levin takes readers on a journey through spacetime to explain the science of black holes in an accessible way.
Along the way she dives into questions like what would it be like to fall into one, how they influence galaxies, and ultimately how can we avoid them.
Levin brings her extensive expertise as a professor of physics at Columbia University to this book.
Drawing on her experience researching the boundaries of astrophysics and cosmology, she provides insights that will appeal to readers at any level of scientific understanding.
Galileo: And the Science Deniers by Mario Livio
The legendary astronomer Galileo Galilei’s work was revolutionary in its time, yet his discoveries were met with resistance and skepticism.
In the book “Galileo: And the Science Deniers” by astrophysicist Mario Livio, readers are given a glimpse into the science deniers of Galileo’s day – and how their close-mindedness could have crippled scientific progress if not for Galileo’s determination.
The book also dives into why we still see this kind of opposition to science today, and how best to counter it.
Livio explains that although he had been working on this project for years, recent events such as vaccine hesitancy inspired him to finish it quickly in order to provide context for our modern struggles against those who would ignore science.
Relativity: The Special and the General Theory By Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein’s book, Relativity: The Special and the General Theory, was first published in 1916.
It is a scientific masterpiece that revolutionized how we understand space and time. In this book, Einstein details his theory of relativity which posits that the laws of nature are the same for all observers regardless of their relative motion to each other – even if they are traveling at different speeds.
Einstein’s theory challenged centuries-old ideas regarding space and time by proposing that gravity is an effect of curved spacetime rather than a force between two objects and that time can be distorted by movement through space.
His insights were instrumental in developing our current understanding of gravitational forces, quantum mechanics, and cosmology as well as providing ground-breaking research into black holes and other exotic phenomena such as wormholes.
Shaken, Not Stirred! by Metin Tolan
From the James Bond movies to Metin Tolan’s new book Shaken, Not Stirred!, 007 has been a cultural icon for decades.
In his book, Tolan takes a unique look at James Bond’s universe by examining it through the lens of physics.
He explores how physics is used in gadgets and scenes from some of the most popular films and books featuring everyone’s favorite secret agent.
Through this interesting approach, readers get to gain a better understanding of both James Bond and physics as well as appreciate their connection with each other.
Stephen Hawking by Leonard Mlodinow
Stephen Hawking by Leonard Mlodinow is an homage to the late Stephen Hawking, one of the world’s greatest minds.
In it, Dr. Mlodinow chronicles his friendship with Hawking and provides insight into the renowned physicist’s life and work.
The book provides readers with a unique perspective on Stephen Hawking’s groundbreaking research in cosmology, quantum mechanics, relativity theory, and black holes as well as his personal relationships with friends, family, students, and colleagues throughout his life.
It also contains exclusive interviews with leading scientists to provide a further understanding of how Hawking fundamentally changed our fundamental understanding of the universe.
With its vivid stories about Hawking’s wit, courage, and determination as he faced incredible physical disabilities due to ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), this powerful memoir will both educate readers and touch their hearts.
The Dream Universe by David Lindley
This book by David Lindley is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of fundamental physics.
Lindley looks at how physicists have strayed from the original vision of a universe made up of simple, dreamlike laws.
He traces this journey from Isaac Newton’s idea of an orderly cosmos to the present day where quantum mechanics and string theory reign supreme.
What makes this work especially unique is that it does not simply point out the flaws in current theories but offers new insights into how we can reconcile our understanding of nature with what was once thought possible.
Lindley draws on his own research and observations to challenge existing paradigms while proposing alternative frameworks that could lead us back to a simpler picture of reality.
He also provides readers with detailed accounts of some key players in this story, including Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking, giving insight into their motivations and contributions.
The Elegant Universe by Brian Greene
The Elegant Universe by Brian Greene is a highly acclaimed book that provides an overview of the most groundbreaking theories in modern physics.
It introduces readers to the world of quantum mechanics and string theory, two concepts deemed essential for understanding the universe as we know it.
Through this book, Greene offers insight into how these ideas provide a foundation for a unified theory of everything.
Greene’s narrative is both accessible and informative, making it suitable for those who are new to the field while still providing detailed explanations that advanced readers can appreciate.
He helps readers understand complex concepts such as black holes, dark matter, and extra dimensions in an accessible way.
The Elegant Universe not only provides an introduction to one of science’s most fascinating topics but also takes us on a journey that redefines our understanding of reality.
The End of Everything by Katie Mack
The End of Everything by Katie Mack is a book that has been stirring up conversations and debates among scientists, philosophers, and readers alike.
In it, the author presents a thought-provoking look at how the universe will come to an end.
The narrative combines cosmology with personal anecdotes to illustrate the complexities of our understanding of what lies ahead for us all.
Katie Mack provides readers with a sobering but ultimately inspiring vision of our ultimate destiny in this captivating tale.
Through her observations on the physics of space-time, she educates her audience on the possible outcomes for our existence while examining deeply held human beliefs in light of scientific facts.
She also offers an alternative point of view that could eventually lead to a brighter future for humanity.
The Feynman Lectures on Physics – Vol. I, II & III Bundle by Richard P. Feynman
The Feynman Lectures on Physics – Vol. I, II & III Bundle by Richard P. Feynman is the perfect combination of classic knowledge and modern research into physics.
For those looking to master the fundamentals of physics, this bundle provides unparalleled insight into the subject.
The first volume in this collection, entitled The Feynman Lectures on Physics: Mainly Mechanics Radiation and Heat, contains essential information about classical mechanics that has been compiled from a variety of sources.
In addition to this, Volumes II and III explore topics such as electricity and magnetism, quantum mechanics, and relativity in greater detail than ever before seen in a single anthology-style publication.
This compilation offers an outstanding resource for students and professionals alike who are interested in furthering their understanding of physics principles.
The Physics Book by DK
The Physics book by DK is an in-depth and comprehensive guide to the major concepts of physics, both old and new.
Written by a team of experts, it covers the core principles of mechanics, electricity and magnetism, relativity, quantum mechanics, and more.
The book takes a clear approach to each topic, using diagrams, illustrations, and text to break down complex concepts into easily understandable chunks.
This makes it a great resource for anyone looking for an introduction to physics or trying to brush up on their knowledge.
In addition to providing an overview of the basics of physics, this book also goes further into more advanced topics such as particle physics and string theory.
It includes detailed explanations of how physical laws can be applied in everyday life as well as in new technologies like nanotechnology and cryogenics.
The Sun by Philip Judge
The Sun by Philip Judge is a comprehensive guide to the phenomenon of our local star, the Sun.
This book provides readers with an insightful overview of the complexity and science behind the sun, its structure, evolution, and its impact on our daily lives.
Judge offers an easy-to-understand introduction to this celestial body for both experts and novice readers alike.
The Sun focuses largely on topics related to solar physics such as radiation transfer, stellar evolution, helioseismology, solar flares, and sunspots.
It also covers broader questions like how stars are formed and why they burn out eventually.
Additionally, it explains some of the most interesting phenomena observed in our Solar System like aurorae or coronal mass ejections.
The World According to Physics by Jim Al-Khalili
The World According to Physics by Jim Al-Khalili is an insightful exploration of the science of the universe.
This book takes readers on a journey of understanding the physical laws that govern our world and how they influence all aspects of life.
Al-Khalili, a popular British scientist and broadcaster, provides an in-depth look at the mysteries of physics and encourages readers to think critically about scientific discoveries.
He unravels complex topics such as quantum mechanics, dark matter, relativity, and particle physics in easily digestible language for readers with no prior knowledge of the subject.
This captivating book offers an engaging narrative through thought experiments, historical anecdotes, and references from the literature that bring concepts alive for readers.
With chapters on energy conservation to time travel, The World According to Physics is essential reading for anyone interested in gaining a deeper knowledge about how our universe works.
Until the End of Time by Brian Greene
Until the End of Time by Brian Greene is an enthralling and captivating exploration of the deepest questions of life, death, and the universe.
Through this book, Greene takes readers on a journey to uncover some of the greatest mysteries of science and philosophy.
By combining his expertise in physics and mathematics with his passion for storytelling, Greene presents us with an intriguing exploration into our place in the universe and how we as humans can contemplate time itself.
Greene examines theories that span centuries, from Plato’s cosmic vision to Einstein’s relativity theory to quantum mechanics.
He unravels complex scientific concepts in such a way that makes them understandable for even non-scientists.
Throughout this incredible voyage, he encourages readers to think beyond what has been accepted as truth by exploring notions about our origins, our purpose, and the possibilities offered by science for understanding eternity.
Also Read: