Top 9 Richard Feynman Books

Joshua Johnson
9 min readSep 29, 2024

Dive into the world of Richard Feynman, the Nobel Prize-winning physicist and brilliant mind, through our latest book roundup article. Here, we've compiled a selection of must-read works by and about Feynman, including his own memoirs, biographies, and thought-provoking essays. From his groundbreaking discoveries to his passion for teaching, these books offer a fascinating insight into the life and work of one of the greatest scientific thinkers of the 20th century. So, grab your favorite cup of coffee and join us on this literary journey celebrating the extraordinary Richard Feynman.

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1. Most of the Good Stuff

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Memories of Richard Feynman

"Richard Feynman's Life in Science: Fascinating Stories of a Genius" is a captivating compilation of essays authored by esteemed scientists, all fervent admirers of the legendary physicist. Featuring captivating personal narratives, this book explores the life and career of Richard Feynman, one of the most prominent physicists of our time.

The book illustrates Feynman's path from his early days as an undergraduate prodigy at Cornell to his peak years as a theoretical physicist at Caltech. It also highlights his evolution into a mentor and educator, leaving an indelible mark on the realm of science and academia. Notable for its blend of charm and brilliance, "Richard Feynman's Life in Science" is a must-read for fans and admirers of science, providing enthralling perspectives into the life of a truly exceptional intellect.

  • Authors: Richard Phillips Feynman
  • Publisher: A I P Press
  • Published Date: July 05, 1993
  • Page Count: 216
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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2. Lectures On Computation

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Discover the groundbreaking insights of Lectures On Computation, a comprehensive exploration of the theory of computation, information and communications, physical aspects of computation, and the physical limits of computers. Based on the meticulous notes taken by one of its esteemed editors, Tony Hey, this profound text captures the essence of a lecture course given by the legendary physicist Richard P. Feynman.

With 330 pages filled with intricate concepts and captivating ideas, this Addison-Wesley Longman publication offers an unparalleled understanding of the world of computation. Perfect for students and professionals seeking to deepen their knowledge and broaden their perspectives, Lectures On Computation is a must-read for anyone interested in the science of computation.

  • Authors: Richard P. Feynman
  • Publisher: Addison-Wesley Longman
  • Published Date: September 08, 1996
  • Page Count: 328
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Computers
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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3. Tuva Or Bust!

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Richard Feynman's Last Journey

Embark on an enthralling expedition with renowned physicist Richard Feynman in the engrossing biography "Tuva Or Bust!" by Ralph Leighton, an intimate portrayal of their decade-long quest to delve into the elusive and mysterious nation of Tannu Tuva. This spellbinding narrative provides an exclusive insight into the life, both personal and professional, of one of history's most extraordinary intellects.

Filled with captivating anecdotes and masterful prose, "Tuva Or Bust!" promises to deliver a mesmerizing tale that will leave readers utterly captivated. Do not miss the opportunity to experience this extraordinary tale of camaraderie, discovery, and the indomitable pursuit of wisdom.

  • Authors: Ralph Leighton
  • Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
  • Published Date: July 05, 2000
  • Page Count: 268
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography
  • Average Rating: 5.0
  • Ratings Count: 3.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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4. The Pleasure of Finding Things Out

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The Best Short Works of Richard P. Feynman

Delve into the wondrous world of Nobel Peace Prize-winning physicist Richard P. Feynman with The Pleasure of Finding Things Out: The Best Short Works of Richard P. Feynman. This remarkable collection from Basic Books showcases the life and groundbreaking work of a scientist who reshaped our understanding of quantum electrodynamics. Featuring interviews, speeches, lectures, and printed articles, this comprehensive compendium paints a vivid picture of Feynman's fascinating journey through the realm of science.

From the importance of science in our culture to his heartfelt Nobel Prize acceptance speech, The Pleasure of Finding Things Out invites readers into the mind of one of history's most brilliant and intriguing minds. With a breadth of topics and a depth of insight, this book is essential reading for anyone seeking the pleasures of scientific discovery and the enriching benefits of a life dedicated to understanding the world around us. Dive in and experience the passion, curiosity, and brilliance of Richard P. Feynman as he shares his own intellectual adventures.

  • Authors: Richard P. Feynman
  • Publisher: Basic Books
  • Published Date: April 06, 2005
  • Page Count: 194
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Science
  • Average Rating: 3.0
  • Ratings Count: 1.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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5. "What Do You Care What Other People Think?": Further Adventures of a Curious Character

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"What Do You Care What Other People Think? " is the long-awaited sequel to Richard Feynman's best-selling memoir, "Surely You’re Joking, Mr. Feynman! " In this unforgettable journey, the legendary physicist shares more thrilling adventures and fascinating life lessons.

Featuring a heartwrenching tale of his first marriage, the dramatic investigation of the Challenger disaster, and an extraordinary demonstration of its cause, this book shines a light on Feynman's indomitable spirit and insatiable curiosity. Prepared with his friend and fellow drummer, Ralph Leighton, "What Do You Care What Other People Think? " is a testament to the power of the human mind, the importance of love, and the enduring legacy of an extraordinary life.

  • Authors: Richard P. Feynman
  • Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
  • Published Date: February 14, 2011
  • Page Count: 345
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography
  • Average Rating: 4.5
  • Ratings Count: 3.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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6. Genius

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The Life and Science of Richard Feynman

Discover the extraordinary life of Richard Feynman, a legendary physicist and an icon of the scientific world in "Genius" by James Gleick. Born in the Depression-era Rockaway Beach, Feynman's irreverent, eccentric, and childishly enthusiastic personality set him apart as a trailblazer in the field of quantum mechanics.

Gleick paints a vivid picture of Feynman's early years, tracing his rapid mastery of quantum mechanics and his place at Los Alamos working on the Manhattan Project under J. Robert Oppenheimer. Feynman's unique perspective and contributions are revealed as he transforms theory into practice, culminating in the Trinity test – the birth of the Atomic Age – at age 27.

In this unforgettable biography, Gleick captures the essence of Feynman's forceful personality, skillfully weaving his work and life together in a way that is both accessible to the layman and infinitely fascinating to seasoned scientists. Don't miss your chance to delve into the extraordinary life and science of the one of the century's great minds.

  • Authors: James Gleick
  • Publisher: Open Road Media
  • Published Date: February 22, 2011
  • Page Count: 858
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography
  • Average Rating: 4.5
  • Ratings Count: 3.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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7. Become a SuperLearner

Learn Speed Reading & Advanced Memorization

Discover the key to becoming a SuperLearner with this extensive guide to speed reading, cutting-edge memorization, and enhancing your cognitive abilities. The creators of the premier bestselling course join forces to teach you how to learn anything three times sooner, overhauling your approach to acquiring and processing knowledge and information.

Amidst the ever-expanding accessibility of information, this book equips you with the tools required to excel in learning, memory, and overall cognitive skills. By focusing on practical exercises and hands-on techniques, you'll cultivate the aptitude to read with exceptional understanding, retain prodigious amounts of data, and streamline your learning journey.

"Become a SuperLearner" is formulated for students, professionals, and anyone interested in swiftly acquiring new skills and knowledge. Whether your goal is to improve your reading efficiency, master a new language, or flourish in your preferred subjects, this book offers a tried-and-true method for ingesting and retaining information in an entirely distinct way.

Equipped with a 7-week self-paced curriculum, captivating exercises, and hours of supplementary video content, you'll possess all the resources necessary to innovate your learning experience and bring forth the full potential of your mind. Join the legion of contented students who have already attained outstanding outcomes with this revolutionary guide.

"Become a SuperLearner" transcends beyond a typical learning book - it's a transformative instrument for those committed to mastering the craft of information acquisition, comprehension, and retention. Get ready to revolutionize your learning process and unlock boundless opportunities!

  • Authors: Jonathan Levi, Lev Goldentouch, Anna Goldentouch
  • Publisher: SuperHuman Enterprises
  • Published Date: April 01, 2015
  • Page Count: 220
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Education
  • Average Rating: 3.0
  • Ratings Count: 2.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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8. "Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!": Adventures of a Curious Character

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"Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman! ": Adventures of a Curious Character, written by Nobel Prize-winning physicist Richard P. Feynman, is an unforgettable and captivating memoir that defies the stereotype of a stuffy scientist.

This highly energized, bestselling book, filled with electrifying anecdotes, recounts Feynman's extraordinary life, from his groundbreaking discussions with Einstein to his daring attempts to crack the seemingly unbreakable safes guarding top-secret nuclear information. Readers will marvel at Feynman's unparalleled intellect, insatiable curiosity, and indomitable spirit, as they journey through the pages of this unique and enthralling biography. This special edition features a brand new introduction by renowned business magnate Bill Gates.

  • Authors: Richard P. Feynman
  • Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
  • Published Date: February 06, 2018
  • Page Count: 352
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography
  • Average Rating: 5.0
  • Ratings Count: 1.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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9. Feynman Lectures On Gravitation

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Discover the groundbreaking insights of renowned physicist Richard Feynman in the Feynman Lectures on Gravitation. Feinman's comprehensive notes on his 1962-63 course at Caltech delve into fundamental gravitational physics, providing an accessible account of gravity, its applications to cosmology, superstars, wormholes, and gravitational waves.

Feynman's unique, non-geometric approach to gravitation and general relativity stems from his insights on quantum aspects of gravity, making these lectures a must-read for anyone eager to unveil the essence of Einstein's general theory of relativity. His lectures demonstrate how the self-consistent demand for a massless spin-2 field, the graviton, coupled to the energy-momentum tensor of matter leads to the inevitable development of general relativity.

This comprehensive guide offers invaluable insights into the foundations of physics, while also featuring a number of fascinating tangents and discourses on important issues of the time. Prepare yourself for a captivating journey into the complex and intriguing world of gravitational physics with the Feynman Lectures on Gravitation.

  • Authors: Richard Feynman
  • Publisher: CRC Press
  • Published Date: May 04, 2018
  • Page Count: 169
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Science
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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