52 pages • 1 hour read
Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!: Adventures of a Curious Character
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Book Brief
Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1985400
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
1940s
1985
Adult
16+ years
Super Short Summary
Surely You’re Joking, Mr. Feynman!: Adventures of a Curious Character is a memoir by Nobel Prize-winning physicist Richard Feynman, recounted through lively anecdotes that showcase his reputation as an adventurous and eccentric thinker. From his early experiments and practical jokes to his contributions to the Manhattan Project and his unconventional teaching methods at Caltech, Feynman’s story highlights his insatiable curiosity and love for both science and humanistic pursuits.
Humorous
Informative
Playful
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
217,507 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman! by Richard Feynman is widely praised for its engaging and humorous narrative, capturing the brilliance and eccentricity of the physicist. Readers appreciate the book's wit and insight into scientific curiosity. However, some find the anecdotes disjointed and feel they do not form a coherent storyline. Overall, it offers a compelling glimpse into the mind of a genius.
Who Should Read Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!?
Readers who relish humorous, intellectually stimulating anecdotes from a Nobel Prize-winning physicist will enjoy Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!. Comparable to A Brief History of Time and Genius, it's ideal for fans of engaging science narratives enriched with personal stories.
217,507 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ralph Leighton
Ralph Leighton
A close friend of Richard Feynman and a biographer who spent many years collaborating on books with Feynman. He shares their anecdotes and adventures, reflecting a deep personal connection.
John Wheeler
John Wheeler
A prominent physicist who served as Feynman’s doctoral advisor and collaborator on important theoretical contributions to quantum physics. His approach to teaching and mentorship left a lasting impression on Feynman.
Jirayr Zorthian
Jirayr Zorthian
An Armenian American artist and friend of Feynman who lived near Caltech and exchanged art lessons for physics lessons with Feynman. Known for providing an artistic escape from academic life, Zorthian's unique lifestyle influenced Feynman's creative pursuits.
400
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
1940s
1985
Adult
16+ years
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