Originally Posted by Hain

As it just came up in conversation, I recently finished reading two books: Hyperspace by Michio Kaku and The Elegant Universe by Brian Greene. These books are about the latest theories in physics, specifically the search for an understanding of String/M-theory. What? Theoretical physics doesn't come up often in your conversations?

Hyperspace was a very good generalization of the problems between the two contemporary views of the universe, namely the special theory of relativity (used at large scales) and the Standard Model (quantum mechanics, used at small scales). Using many colorful and useful analogies, such as a overly snug bed sheets and sitting atop of a spherical prison to explain the principles of false vacuums, the read is really enriching to see the universe in whole new modes.

The Elegant Universe was even better. Greene does a fantastic job, and goes even further to demonstrate the problems in physics and the solutions string/m-theory actually accomplishes. The descriptions are very vivid and even the layman can become fluent with the principles described. I would recommend this to any physics enthusiast. In addition, there is a Nova special, hosted by Brian Greene, about the work in his book.

Hyperspace and The Elegant Universe complement each other very well.