Famous quantum physicists have said that the theory explains “most of physics and all of chemistry”. It is quotes like this, perhaps, that make the quantum world so perversely attractive to the scientifically inclined. Like moths to a flame, we buy books about quantum mechanics – only to remember what a painful pursuit it is, and quickly abandon the book. If this describes your previous attempts to understand the realm of the quantum, then Manjit Kumar’s book is your best bet so far. Mathematics is kept to a minimum, which in this field means you still have to be ok with a few lists of numbers and the odd equation. It begins with Paul Ehrenfest, a pioneer in the field, in tears because he has to tell Albert Einstein he is wrong about the nature of reality. It then follows the rise of quantum mechanics, over the course of about 30 years. Mostly a historical account, told through the characters of the quantum revolution, it is an enjoyable read, even for those who don’t like maths.

###