The Einstein Theory of Relativity

The Einstein Theory of Relativity: A Trip to the Fourth Dimension / Edited and with a Foreword by David Derbes and Robert Jantzen / Illustrations by Hugh Gray Lieber / 346-page paperback / 5" x 8" / ISBN 978-1-58988-044-3 / Publication Date: September 2008

"Oh, what a delightful book! This is the clearest explanation of relativity available—and the most fun." —Walter Isaacson

Using "just enough mathematics to help and not to hinder the lay reader," Lillian Lieber provides a thorough explanation of Einstein's theory of relativity. Her delightful style, in combination with her husband's charming illustrations, makes for an interesting and accessible read about one of the greatest ideas of all times.

Lillian Lieber was the head of the Department of Mathematics at Long Island University. She wrote a series of lighthearted (and well-respected) math books in the 1940s, including The Einstein Theory of Relativity, Infinity, andMits, Wits & Logic.

Hugh Gray Lieber was the head of the Department of Fine Arts at Long Island University. He illustrated many books written by his wife Lillian.

Robert Jantzen is a professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences at Villanova University. His specialties are general relativity and cosmology, differential geometry, and Lie groups.

David Derbes teaches science at the University of Chicago Lab School.

"A clear and vivid exposition of the essential ideas and methods of the theory of relativity...can be warmly recommended especially to those who cannot spend too much time on the subject." —Albert Einstein

"If you know high-school math, are not afraid of equations, and want to find out what Einstein really said, read Lillian Lieber's book. She will lead you through special and general relativity, helping you at every step to understand the essential equations, including tensors, with amazing clarity and conciseness. This uniquely charming book remains as vivid as ever and even more helpful, thanks to the excellent new foreward and notes by David Derbes and Robert Jantzen." —Peter Pesic, author of Abel's Proof: An Essay on the Sources and Meaning of Mathmatical Unsolvability and Sky in a Bottle

"Does the nature of time fascinate you? Does gravity seem a mysterious subject? Are you interested in learning just what it is that Einstein actually did that made him so famous? Do you know a youngster who shows talent in mathematics and science? If yes to any or all of these questions, then this wonderful book is just the thing, either for you or as a gift. It's far beyond mere pop-science, but also nicely avoids being simply a dense thicket of equations. Like baby bear's porridge that best suited Goldilocks, this book is 'just right.' I read the original 1945 edition when I was a high school student in the 1950s, and it had a tremendous impact on me. I predict the same experience for you, or perhaps a young friend, with this new, updated edition." —Paul J. Nahin, author of Time Machines, Oliver Heaviside, and Dr. Euler's Fabulous Formula

"It's great to have it available again. Whether or not you're a scientist, you will relish this book." —Walter Isaacson, author of Einstein: His Life and Universe