Isaac Newton : Discovering Laws That Govern the Universe

Children's Literature - Kristin Harris

Isaac Newton was a scientific genius. His work was the basis for the next 300 years of physics and mathematics. He is known for the apple that fell on his head that stimulated his thoughts about gravity. But he also solved the mystery of what kept the planets in their orbits as they circled the sun. In his work in mathematics, he developed calculus and the binomial theorem. His study of light and optics helped scientists design better lenses for glasses, microscopes and telescopes. This work eventually lead to the new field of spectroscopy. It is not surprising that the life of this genius was not always tranquil. As a small child he spent a lot of time alone making models. He eventually ended up at Cambridge University, where he worked very hard and flourished. At twenty-six, he became the youngest professor of mathematics to teach at Cambridge. He was a perfectionist who was reluctant to publish his research, but when he did, his masterpiece, Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica, was hailed as the greatest scientific work of all time. It is truly inspirational to realize one person's work could have such a profound impact. Part of the "Giants of Science" series.

From The Critics

This volume from the Giants in Science series provides the reader with a general overview of Newton's life and his contributions to the world of science. Author Michael White does a tremendous job in making the book an enjoyable learning experience while providing an accurate portrayal of Newton and the world he lived in. The creative use of pictures, diagrams, and related quotes encourage the reader to dream and ponder, making the volume ideal for students in grades 5 to 8. The book affords a vivid and clear picture of what life was like for Newton. Interspersed throughout the pages, in easy-to-understand language, are explanations of Newton's scientific discoveries and what they were all about. This gives the reader a general understanding of both Newton's professional and personal accomplishments and keeps the reader's attention throughout the narrative. Understanding society's influences on Newton enables one to see what life was like for him and the challenges he would overcome. I recommend this book highly to those interested in learning and understanding Newton's contributions to society and science, as well as society's effects on him. Having read other books in the series, I also recommend reading them or, better yet, obtaining the entire set for the classroom or library. (from the Giants in Science Series.) Highly Recommended, Grades 5-8, General Audience. REVIEWER: Gary E. Watts (ARINC, Inc.)