Recommended Reading

For the amateur, there are plenty of books that explain the basics of physics and our universe.

Stephen Hawking's, "A Brief History of Time," is a must. It initiates the nonscientist to the wonders of space and time.

Brian Greene's. "The Elegant Universe," delves into string theory. I found it more difficult to read than Hawking, as he delves into quantum geometry as well as explaining the mystery of strings. It is worth the read as his imagery allows the reader to visualize other dimensions in space and simplifies complex concepts.

If you feel that these books maybe a bit over your head, try "The Planets," by Dava Sobel. Sobel intertwines scientific fact into an amazing narrative that is so lyrical and poetic, you forget you are learning about our solar system.

There are a number of books that I haven't touched yet, but plan to do so in the near future. Hawking's, "A Briefer History of Time, " and "The Universe in a Nutshell" are on my list, as well as Sobel's, "Galileo's Daughter."

These books allow the beginning science aficionado to explore our world and the universe without being overwhelmed by a barrage of tedious facts. You will be amazed at the end of your journey how much you have learned.