Over the years, a few books have stood out in my personal journey through physics, each leaving a lasting impact in different ways. Whether you're just starting out or already deep in your studies, these five books are ones I believe every physics undergraduate should read. Here's why.
Surely You’re Joking, Mr. Feynman!
I first picked up Surely You’re Joking, Mr. Feynman when I was 16, still unsure if physics was the right path for me. I wasn’t the most studious person and had many other interests, like basketball and hiking and I was eager to travel and explore the world. This book taught me that there’s no “right” kind of person for science. All you really need is a bit of curiosity, and that can take you a long way. Feynman’s adventures made me realize that physics is as much about wonder as it is about hard work.
Madame Curie: A Biography
I found this book at my local library while still in school. Until then, most of my exposure to physics came from male teachers, focusing on the contributions of men. This biography shattered that narrative for me. It was the first time I saw a strong, independent woman shaping the course of science. Madame Curie’s story gave me the courage to pursue STEM, knowing that gender doesn’t define your place in the field.
Griffiths’ Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
Yes, this is a textbook, but it was one of the first books on quantum mechanics I ever read, and now, as a PhD student in Quantum Technologies, I couldn’t leave it off the list. While it may not be the most rigorous text out there, it gave me the knowledge and intuition I needed to build a foundation in the field. Even today, I find myself returning to it. Griffiths is an excellent introduction for anyone who wants to dive into the mind-bending world of quantum mechanics.
Existential Physics
This is one of the more recent books I’ve read, and it opened my eyes to the broader challenges we face in physics today—not just from a scientific perspective, but also from social and cultural ones. Hossenfelder gets you thinking about the deeper meaning of science, its impact on society, and the unresolved questions that still linger. It’s a must-read for anyone who wants to think critically about the future of the field.
Periodic Tales
I came across Periodic Tales during my Master’s at Cambridge when I was struggling with biology and chemistry lectures (I hadn’t touched biology in over eight years!). This book made me realize that science isn’t neatly divided into boxes like physics, chemistry, or biology. Instead, it’s an intricate web of interconnections. It was a fun and enlightening read that reminded me that science, in all its complexity, is a unified endeavor.
Comments