Theoretical physicist Carlo Rovelli invites quantum theory novices on an engrossing exploration of his latest work. Narrator David Rintoul embodies the author's zest for sharing all things quanta. His clear, well-paced delivery and rich British baritone further complement Rovelli's accessible writing. Divided into three parts, it becomes a dialogue with listeners, encouraging engagement as key figures and philosophical and quantum concepts are presented. Scientific giants Erwin Schrödinger and Werner Heisenberg, along with Buddhist philosopher Nagarjuna and others, are essential to this examination of a challenging subject. Personal anecdotes and humor are mixed with weighty considerations of equations and existence. Rintoul's performance shares Rovelli's ease with what he knows and what remains for physicists and listeners alike to discover.
Pub Date: May 25, 2021
Duration: 4 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593412435
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Dr. Plotkin is an ethnobotanist who recounts his experiences searching for new medications in the Amazon rain forest. He makes an impassioned plea for the world to stop destroying this irreplaceable resource. Since the author reads his own work, we can rely on the pronunciation of some unusual botanical terms; however, his voice (presumably not trained for performance) lacks the enthusiasm and fascination the words suggest. Furthermore, with no chapter references and few pauses between sections, transitions, such as the change of location from Ecuador to Massachusetts, are awkward.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
A beautiful performance of a fascinating and moving story.
Narrator Sean Pratt is masterful in expressing the bravery, selflessness, and deep sense of humanity that underlie and accompany this tragic true story. Kolker relates the history of a family blasted by a rare form of inherited dementia called frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Five of nine siblings, along with their mother, have the genetic mutation that strikes while they are only in their 40s and slowly changes their personalities. It’s a cruel fate, but Pratt’s narration brings empathy, suspense, and even hope. As the next generation faces the same challenges in their own future, listeners will hope that scientific research, pharmaceutical development, and genetic modification may provide some relief from FTD and other forms of dementia.
A beautiful performance of a fascinating and moving story.Pub Date: Sept. 29, 2026
Duration: 10 hrs, 57 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217406425
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Nov. 4, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 15, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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