Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!: Adventures of a Curious Character

Feynman admires “monster minds” (94). What does he mean by this term? Does he become one of them?

Feynman often refers to his lack of social skills. Based on examples from the text, to what extent is his social awkwardness a hinderance or a benefit to him?

In a section entitled “Vitals” (15), Feynman gives autobiographical information. What kind of information is presented here and why might he separate it from the main narrative?

Feynman says that he approaches problems with a “different box of tools” than his colleagues. Where in the book does he demonstrate this different toolbox? How does it shape his narrative?

Consider Feynman’s use of the terms “amateur” and “expert.” To what extent does he take on either label for himself? To what extent is he skeptical of either term?

When Feynman describes his experiences with the Manhattan Project as “Los Alamos From Below,” what does he mean by “from below”? Which hierarchies does Feynman respect? Why?

How does Feynman distinguish between luck and superstition in this text? How is one a benefit and one a detriment?

Feynman says that he is afraid to be thought of as a “sissy”? Under what circumstances does he worry about stereotypical definitions of masculinity? How does this affect his credibility as a narrator in the current era?