46 pages • 1 hour read
Einstein's Dreams
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Book Brief
144
Novel • Fiction
Bern, Switzerland • 1900s
1992
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Einstein’s Dreams by Alan Lightman imagines the dreams of a fictionalized Albert Einstein, exploring varied theories of time leading up to his 1905 theory of special relativity. The novel depicts 30 dream vignettes in which time behaves differently, questioning its nature and impact on human experience. Einstein grapples with these dreams while working as a patent clerk in Berne, Switzerland.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Fantastical
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Einstein's Dreams by Alan Lightman captivates with its imaginative vignettes exploring diverse concepts of time, earning praise for poetic prose and philosophical depth. Critics highlight its intellectual allure and creativity. However, some find the fragmented structure and abstract nature challenging. Overall, a thought-provoking read for contemplative audiences.
Who Should Read Einstein's Dreams?
Readers who relish philosophical musings and the interplay of science and creativity will enjoy Einstein's Dreams by Alan Lightman. Comparable to Sophie's World by Jostein Gaarder and The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger, it appeals to those who appreciate thought-provoking narratives on the nature of time.
Michele Besso
Michele Besso
An engineer and Albert Einstein's best friend, who provides companionship and a practical perspective during the early years of Einstein's groundbreaking research.
Mileva Mari
Mileva Mari
Einstein's wife and former fellow polytechnic student, whose relationship with Einstein is strained by his intense focus on his work.
Hans Albert
Hans Albert
The infant child of Albert Einstein and Mileva Mari, mentioned in the context of Einstein's family life but not actively featured in the narrative.
144
Novel • Fiction
Bern, Switzerland • 1900s
1992
Adult
18+ years
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