Helgoland: The Strange and Beautiful Story of Quantum Physics

Helgoland by Carlo Rovelli is a novel that tells the story of the birth of quantum physics and its young founders, who were to become some of the most famous Nobel winners in science. It is a celebration of youthful rebellion and intellectual revolution and offers an original view of the world as a fabric woven by relations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2022
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Carlo Rovelli's novel "Helgoland" is a captivating tale of rebellion and science that has captivated readers worldwide. Set in the picturesque island of Helgoland in the North Sea in 1925, the book follows the journey of twenty-three-year-old Werner Heisenberg, a brilliant physicist suffering from hay fever, as he grapples with an idea that would revolutionize the field of science and our understanding of the world.

Through the eyes of Heisenberg and his fellow young physicists, Rovelli explores the birth of quantum physics and the intellectual revolution that accompanied it. The book celebrates the youthful rebellion and intellectual curiosity of these pioneers, who were to become some of the most famous Nobel laureates in science.

In "Helgoland," Rovelli offers an original interpretation of quantum physics, describing the world as a fabric woven by relations. He challenges traditional scientific paradigms and presents a fresh perspective on the nature of reality. The book takes readers on a journey to dizzying heights, exploring the complexities of quantum mechanics and the profound implications of this revolutionary science.

Through his masterful storytelling, Rovelli transports readers to a magical place where the boundaries between science and philosophy blur. He weaves together intricate narratives, historical anecdotes, and scientific insights to create a rich and immersive experience. "Helgoland" is not only a fascinating exploration of science but also a celebration of the life of the mind and the many pleasures that come with intellectual inquiry.

The novel has received widespread critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its elegant prose, insightful analysis, and ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience. It has been named a Book of the Year by several prestigious publications, including The Times, Financial Times, Sunday Times, Guardian, and Prospect. It has also been shortlisted for the Nayef Al-Rodhan Prize, recognizing excellence in science writing.

In conclusion, "Helgoland" is a must-read for anyone interested in science, philosophy, or the history of intellectual revolution. Carlo Rovelli's novel offers a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the birth of quantum physics and its profound implications for our understanding of the world. With its masterful storytelling and insightful analysis, "Helgoland" transports readers to a magical place where science and philosophy converge, reminding us of the endless possibilities of the human mind.

Weight: 158g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141993270