this is a terrific short overview of newton's work and ideas. written in james gleick's standard, highly digestible style, newton offers us a reminder about the development of scientific thought, with the perils and politics surrounding it.

newton is presented as a extraordinarily man of intellect who was equally concerned with his religiosity. the book gives us an impression of what newton's life was like, and it seems like a lonely place. he spent a long while teaching, living the celibate life as mandated by his employer. his work was done secretly (particularly the alchemical practices), and his reputation grew slowly. eventually, though, he takes on the cushy government post of managing the country's currency and heads the royal society of london.

in the age of lengthy bio that we live in it is refreshing to sit down with a crisp, engaging, and intelligent book that helps us understand and appreciate one of britain's greatest minds. the finest 191 page bio you'll read anytime soon. and one likely to make you seek out the longer version because your curiosity has been piqued.