Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton Book Summary - Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton Book explained in key points
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Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton summary

James Gleick

Learn the truth behind the legend

4.6 (194 ratings)
30 mins

Brief summary

"Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton" by James Gleick is a concise and accessible introduction to Newton's life and contributions to science. It highlights his development of calculus, laws of motion, and theories of optics.

Table of Contents

    Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton
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    Introduction

    Bedtime Biographies are best when listened to.  Check out the audio version to get the full experience!

    A man sits under an apple tree. For hours he’s been contemplating a tricky problem, and he just can’t get his head around it. So he sits there under the tree and thinks. Suddenly, it hits him – not the answer to his problem, but an apple. An apple falls from the tree and hits the man on top of the head. This surely hurt – but it also knocked an idea into his brain. 

    Within an instant, the solution to the problem appears! He’s solved it! He jumps up to write down his idea and tell the world of his discovery.

    You’ve probably guessed by now that the man in question is Isaac Newton, one of the most famous scientists of all time. If there’s one thing we all know about the man it’s that a fallen apple pushed him to discover gravity.

    Well, there is so much more to Isaac Newton and his life than this single, almost certainly made-up story. In the next 30 minutes or so, let’s explore his life and work together. 

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    What is Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton about?

    Narrated by Cathleen McCarron

    Music by Federico Coderoni  

    Isaac Newton (2003) takes readers on an insightful tour of the life and mind of one of history’s greatest thinkers. It’s more than a plain account of Newton’s life and accomplishments. Instead, we get a revealing glimpse of his habits, obsessions and eccentricities. It all makes for a revealing and rewarding biography.

    Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton Review

    Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton (2019) is an engaging book that sheds light on the life and achievements of the brilliant scientist, Isaac Newton. Here's why this book is definitely worth reading:

    • It offers a fascinating glimpse into Newton's journey and his groundbreaking discoveries in the fields of physics, mathematics, and astronomy.
    • The book explores Newton's personal struggles and provides insights into the mind of a genius, making it relatable and inspiring.
    • With its accessible language and captivating storytelling, the book manages to make complex scientific concepts understandable and enjoyable for readers.

    Who should read Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton?

    • Students of history
    • People interested in learning how the modern world was shaped
    • Scientists curious about the mythology behind their interests

    About the Author

    James Gleick has written to great acclaim on the history of science and the impact of technology. His writing has garnered him the PEN/EO Wilson Literary Science Writing Award and the Royal Society Winton Prize for Science Books. His books have been finalists for the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award. His previous books include The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood (2012) and Genius: The Life and Science of Richard Feynman (1992).

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    Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton FAQs 

    What is the main message of Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton?

    Explore the life and achievements of Isaac Newton, a brilliant scientist whose discoveries revolutionized our understanding of the natural world.

    How long does it take to read Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton?

    The reading time for Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.

    Is Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton is a fascinating book that provides a concise and engaging account of Newton's life and accomplishments. It's definitely worth a read!

    Who is the author of Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton?

    The author of Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton is James Gleick.

    What to read after Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Bedtime Biography: Isaac Newton, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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