The Canon: A Whirligig Tour of the Beautiful Basics of Science - Natalie Angier

Advantages: Very good book for long time non reader to help explore scientific fields as well as reference book for the experienced science student
Disadvantages: Doesnot include very complicated scientific stuffs but provides very useful basics

...I had been away from school for 4 years and I had forgotten most of the basic scientific formulae and theories. This book was provided by the Open University and I was to undergo a science course. I was nervous whether I will be able to cope with the tough formulae and theories of science... but as I took this book as reference for the basics of science, whenever I felt lost, i referred to this book and there it was the basics to help me overcome the problem... This book is written in simple english language that made me easy to learn basics of science. I would recommend this book to anyone who is undertake science subject... as this book helps the new learners of science as well as provide good reference to the basics of science for the experienced science students.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Great book, very enjoyable read
Disadvantages: Subplot detracts from the main action

...of the writing in this thread of the book is interesting, and beautifully imagined, but to be honest it really detracts from the main story. I wish that the editors had made a better job of advising Banks on this. With a little more work, and a bit more detail in the main plot Look To Windward could have been a landmark in science fiction. As it is, it is a flawed masterpiece, but still a really good book, and Bank's best so far.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: The story is very clever and at times very gripping...
Disadvantages: It might not appeal to everyone and has lots of loose ends...

...THE PRESTIGE --------------------- WHAT’S IT ABOUT? ---------------------------- In 1995, Christopher Priest's novel, The Prestige was published. It is the unusual but fascinating story about two 19th century stage illusionists who are initially unknown to the general public and thankfully for some considerable time – each other. The two main characters are Alfred Borden and Rupert Angier. The entire book is written in a first-person diary format. This allows us into the lives, minds and inner-most thoughts of both men in very great detail. Both illusionists are striving for fame and fortune from their magic performances and actually manage to achieve both - but at a great price. As the years pass, both Borden and Angier become well known stage illusionists of some distinction. Borden becomes known as ‘Le Professeur de Magie’ while... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful