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skettska's review against another edition
4.0
Wow. An amazing book about an amazing woman. Emilie is a forgotten genius, without whom our understanding of science and mathematics would be crippled. Stunning.
typewriter's review against another edition
emotional
funny
informative
3.5
This book was very readable, and did a good job of taking the reader through the lives of Voltaire and Emilie, though Emilie's life was very much the focus. However, I was disturbed by the way almost every female historical figure who wasn't Emilie was dismissed as vapid and not worth talking about (the irony being that the same criticisms were applied to Emilie after her death). Just because the historical record is silent on their lives does not mean that these women were vain, empty creatures and lacked rich inner lives and struggles (such as that of simply existing as a woman in the 17th century). I was also annoyed by the author's sometimes casual tone, and the way he put forth assumptions on the nature of love and interpersonal relationships that did not seem grounded in any relevance to the subject matter.
Overall I still enjoyed my reading experience, as what this book does do well is highlight the absolutely ridiculous goings-on in the french court, though I would hesitate to use it as my only source for the above reasons.
Overall I still enjoyed my reading experience, as what this book does do well is highlight the absolutely ridiculous goings-on in the french court, though I would hesitate to use it as my only source for the above reasons.
ayetaebae's review
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
3.75
I didn’t know much about Voltaire and nothing at all about Emile. It was really interesting to read about their lives and the impact they have had on politics, science, and views on morality.
fallchicken's review against another edition
5.0
... hmm ... my brief review is lost. :-(
Even briefer: This is a *very* readable book about an extraordinary woman.
Even briefer: This is a *very* readable book about an extraordinary woman.
chgoange's review against another edition
4.0
Well, that old saying holds true...behind every great man is an even greater woman. Or something like that.
citizenkahn's review against another edition
5.0
This a great view into 18th century France, the radical life of Emilie du Chatelet and Voltaire chronicling their impact on science and society. A very worthy read.
jcargabr's review against another edition
adventurous
informative
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
3.75
paloma_sanchezh's review against another edition
3.0
why did you only reach me so late? I'd hunted for love, but found only mirages...
roughmarginalia's review against another edition
3.5
A bit repetitive at times, though I suppose that is attributable to the nature of Voltaire and Émilie du Châtelet's relationship. I also wish that the book had honed in even more on du Châtelet's life and perspective - I found my interest waning whilst reading the chapters in which she was not the central focus. Overall, however, the text is well-written, thoroughly engaging and highly accessible to a wide audience, and for that I am glad.
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