In "Electric Universe", author David Bodanis recaps the history of the discovery and exploitation of the electromagnetic force. He successfully intertwines easily understandable explanations of electromagnetic phenomena with remarkably exciting and dramatic true tales of the discoverers.
In particular, the author's deft telling of the story of Cyrus Field, the adventurer who had the wild idea of running a telegraph cable on the seabed connecting England with North America, is so gripping that it simply begs a blockbuster film adaptation (if only popcorn films were so honorable of physics).
Obscure discoverers and inventors are finally elevated to the recognition they rightfully deserve, and many figures that have been placed on pedestals by nearly every high school physics textbook are brought down to the level of humanity from demigod status (in particular, Thomas Edison).
The two chapters on the development of radar before and during World War II, in England and Germany vividly illustrate the desperate struggle of England in the war, and how people working in a free society tend to be more innovative.
The explanations of the physical phenomena at work are nearly poetic. Masterful writing evokes strong images that linger in the imagination long after the book is set aside. The general physical concepts are painlessly, even joyfully learned.
Bondanis makes what could be a very dry area in the history of physics accessible and enjoyable. This book is highly recommended for the lay reader.
Title: Electric Universe
Author: David Bodanis
Publication Date: 2005
Publisher: Crown Publisher
ISBN: 1-4000-4550-9
