59 pages • 1 hour read
The Other Einstein: A novel
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Book Brief
314
Novel • Fiction
Zurich, Switzerland • 1890s
2016
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Other Einstein, Mileva Maric, a brilliant physicist from Serbia, earns a place at a Swiss university where she meets Albert Einstein, falling in love despite societal constraints. The narrative follows their relationship's complexities, including professional collaboration, Einstein's rising career, and Mileva's diminishing scientific role, leading to eventual marital breakdown and divorce. The story addresses themes of sexism and reproductive loss.
Informative
Contemplative
Emotional
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
90,688 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Marie Benedict's The Other Einstein explores Mileva Marić's role in Albert Einstein's life. Readers praise its engaging narrative and historical detail, though some critique its speculative elements and lack of strong evidence for some claims. Despite mixed opinions on character depth, it’s largely appreciated for shedding light on a lesser-known historical figure.
Who Should Read The Other Einstein?
Fans of historical fiction and strong female protagonists will relish The Other Einstein by Marie Benedict. Admirers of The Paris Wife and The Aviator's Wife will appreciate this tale of Mileva Marić, Einstein's first wife, whose intellectual partnership with him is compellingly portrayed.
90,688 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein
A universally renowned historical figure whose complicated personal life is explored, focusing on his relationship with Mileva and how it impacts her life.
Marie Sklodowska Curie
Marie Sklodowska Curie
A successful female scientist who appears later in the story, helping Mileva reflect on what she could have achieved with a supportive partner.
Lieserl Einstein
Lieserl Einstein
Mileva and Albert's first child, whose existence highlights the challenges and pressures faced by Mileva during her early relationship with Albert.
Elsa Einstein
Elsa Einstein
Albert's first cousin, involved in an affair with him, and becomes a significant figure following Mileva's separation from Albert.
Michele Besso
Michele Besso
A Swiss-Italian engineer and Albert's close friend, known for supporting Mileva's scientific ambitions while studying at the Polytechnic.
314
Novel • Fiction
Zurich, Switzerland • 1890s
2016
Adult
18+ years
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