52 pages • 1 hour read •
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
400
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
1940s
1985
W. W. Norton & Company
Adult
16+ years
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
217,507 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
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
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
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
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.
Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman! is a collection of anecdotes and experiences shared by Nobel Prize-winning physicist Richard Feynman, providing a humorous and personal insight into his life and career.
The book's title comes from a phrase frequently uttered by people Feynman interacted with, reflecting his unconventional approach to problem-solving and curiosity-driven adventures.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
In addition to being an acclaimed physicist, Richard Feynman was a talented bongo drummer and painter, showcasing his wide-ranging interests beyond the field of science.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
400
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
1940s
1985
W. W. Norton & Company
Adult
16+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.