Next month (I think on the 16th) Norton will release a new book by Richard A. Muller, The Instant Physicist:  An Illustrated Guide.  The book can be pre-ordered now from various distributors.

Image shamelessly lifted from Amazon.com

I think you’re going to enjoy this book.   The format is perfect for quick dips; on the left side, an easy-to-read (and humorous) explanation of every-day physics, and on the right, a clever illustration (by Joey Manfre).  You’ll learn how spy satellites operate (and how to hide from them), how to calculate the epicenter of an earthquake, what really fell out of the sky at Roswell, and many, many other nuggets.

This is science brought into your living room.  It’s interesting, engaging, and even captured the attention of my teenager.  I consider that nothing short of incredible.  Although designed for non-scientists, it is an enjoyable read at all levels.  With gentle wit (and great illustrations), Muller will instill a love of physics in the ordinary world.  I would say it’s definitely worth a trip to your local library or favorite bookstore.

Richard Muller is a professor of physics at the University of California, Berkeley.  He has published several books, including Physics For Future Presidents, a book based on his popular lecture series for non-science majors at Berkeley.

W. W. Norton & Company is the oldest and largest independent (employee-owned) publisher in the United States.  Its roots go back to 1923.  They have a solid reputation; publishing textbooks in science, history, art and literature, along with bestsellers like Helter Skelter and A Clockwork Orange.

Enjoy!