Overview
Albert Einstein spent his life asking questions and searching for answers. In 1921 Einstein was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics. He was not only a scientist, he was also a peace activist and a fighter for social justice.In this revealing biography—featuring a wealth of black-and-white photographs—esteemed nonfiction author Milton Meltzer explores the life and work of one of the greatest scientists of all time.
Synopsis
Albert Einstein spent his life asking questions and searching for answers. In 1921 Einstein was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics. He was not only a scientist, he was also a peace activist and a fighter for social justice.
In this revealing biography—featuring a wealth of black-and-white photographs—esteemed nonfiction author Milton Meltzer explores the life and work of one of the greatest scientists of all time.
Children's Literature
This interesting book on the life of Albert Einstein does an excellent job of explaining his famous theory in terms that elementary students can understand. The text begins with Einstein's birth in pre-World War I Germany and continues through to his death in American in 1955. It gives a balanced picture of Einstein as a family man, a scientist and an activist for social causes. Multiple period photographs of Einstein's personal and professional life combined with well-written, appropriate text will appeal to upper elementary students. His theory of relativity and its impact on the world is discussed as is the historical milieu in which he lived. The text gives a well-rounded picture of this brilliant man, but unfortunately fails to mention that his first wife was also an accomplished scientist ahead of her time. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger, Ph.D.
Editorials
Children's Literature -
This interesting book on the life of Albert Einstein does an excellent job of explaining his famous theory in terms that elementary students can understand. The text begins with Einstein's birth in pre-World War I Germany and continues through to his death in American in 1955. It gives a balanced picture of Einstein as a family man, a scientist and an activist for social causes. Multiple period photographs of Einstein's personal and professional life combined with well-written, appropriate text will appeal to upper elementary students. His theory of relativity and its impact on the world is discussed as is the historical milieu in which he lived. The text gives a well-rounded picture of this brilliant man, but unfortunately fails to mention that his first wife was also an accomplished scientist ahead of her time. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger, Ph.D.School Library Journal
Gr 3-6- This carefully researched book offers more depth than many biographies targeting this age group. Readers learn about Einstein's background, achievements, beliefs, and personal characteristics. For example, the independent-minded young man left high school to join his parents in Italy, despite their disapproval, and he attended only college classes that interested him. To his credit, Meltzer explains Einstein's theory of relativity in fairly simple language. He also shares how the physicist's theories paved the way for scientific advances such as space travel and computer chips and how the elderly Einstein campaigned for peace and equality. Although the writing is superb, there are no chapters to break up the text, which might discourage reluctant readers. Furthermore, one wonders about the intended audience because the font size is larger than average but the material is complex enough for upper elementary students. The black-and-white photographs help readers visualize Einstein as a scientist, musician, and family man. Overall, this biography will be a welcome addition to most collections.-Barbara Katz, Parish Episcopal School, Dallas, TX
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