Denis Brian Libri

In this unique book, celebrated biographer Denis Brian draws on some of the greatest scientific minds of the twentieth century, in pursuit of their distinct views on life, knowledge, and the cosmos. A provocative and revealing interviewer, Brian weaves together the insights and personal stories of a stellar cast of Nobel Prize winners and other luminaries, including Linus Pauling's ill-fated support of Vitamin C as a cure for cancer, Ashley Montagu's explanation of why the sex drive is not innate, and various personal recollections of the making of the atomic bomb, Heisenberg's role in Nazi Germany, and the spy case of Klaus Fuchs.

Exploring the intricate personal and professional lives of the Curie family, this biography delves into the remarkable achievements of Pierre and Marie Curie, alongside their daughters Irene and Eve, and son-in-law Frederic Joliot-Curie. Biographer Denis Brian uncovers a multigenerational narrative enriched with new personal details, correspondence, and diary excerpts. The book offers a blend of touching and humorous anecdotes, showcasing the deep connections within the family that fueled their scientific legacy.

His name is synonymous with genius, and his work profoundly shaped the twentieth century. In the decades since his death, Albert Einstein has continued to intrigue and inspire. This first full-scale biography in twenty years by acclaimed author Denis Brian delves into the private, public, and scientific aspects of the enigmatic figure behind the legend. For two decades, Brian explored the Einstein archives and conducted extensive interviews with friends and associates, uncovering a wealth of new information previously withheld by those closest to him. The result is a compelling portrayal of a down-to-earth figure. Brian examines Einstein's staggering legacy through conversations with contemporaries, revealing the meaning behind his formulas, theories, and experiments. With intimate detail, he recreates the environment in which Einstein worked, both in solitude and collaboration, highlighting the warm relationships he maintained with fellow physicists and his assistants. Additionally, the biography addresses the FBI's investigation into Einstein's alleged communist ties, his advocacy for Europe's Jews during Hitler's rise, and his passionate support for the establishment of Israel. This comprehensive portrait offers a deeper understanding of Einstein's life and impact.

The book explores the tumultuous history of one of America's infamous prisons, detailing its transformation from the brutal conditions of the 19th century to the reforms initiated in the 20th century. It highlights the oppressive environment where silence was enforced through harsh punishments, contrasting it with the progressive leadership of Warden Lewis Lawes, who, during his twenty-one years in charge, advocated for prisoner rehabilitation rather than mere punishment, leading to significant improvements in the institution's treatment of inmates.

Exploring the historical relationship between American presidents and the Jewish community, this book delves into the motivations behind presidential support for Jews and Israel. It highlights the consistent efforts of leaders to safeguard Jews from persecution and examines the admiration and friendships that developed over time. Through detailed analysis, the narrative uncovers the complex dynamics of political alliances and the moral imperatives that influenced presidential actions toward Jews both domestically and internationally.