Albert Einstein: The Jewish Man Behind the Theory

by Devra Newberger Speregen

A young adult biography that focuses on Einstein as a great Jewish thinker and champion of Israel. In 2005, the world celebrated Albert Einstein’s annus mirabile, the miraculous year. It was the 100th anniversary of the publication of his five pioneering papers that led to revolutionary changes in our understanding of the properties of space and time. The anniversary of the Einstein’s theory of relativity and the publication of his famous formula, e=mc2, presents JPS with an opportunity to educate a new generation of young readers about Einstein’s importance as a scientist and, more specifically, as a Jew. Speregen fully explores the fascinating story of Albert Einstein’s connection to his Jewish roots and the growth of his commitment to the creation of the State of Israel. She describes Einstein’s difficult early years as a student in Germany’s repressive school system and details his struggle to respond to his stubborn questioning nature and personal search for answers to some of the great questions of the universe. The author discusses how Einstein’s ties to his people grew as he witnessed the rise of anti-Semitism in the early 1900s and his relentless efforts to raise money and public awareness to promote the creation of the State of Israel. (In fact, he was even offered the presidency of Israel after the death of Chaim Weizman.)

136 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2006

About the author

Devra Newberger Speregen has written more than 100 books, including young adult fiction, non-fiction, puzzle books, activity books, and nearly 30 biographies for young people. Speregen serves as a regular contributor to Young Judea Magazine and BabagaNewz Magazine.

Reviews

[Perlie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite a fascinating glimpse into the life of Einstein. It was certainly more flattering than the exhibit we saw at the Bern Historical Museum. Each chapter opens with a reflection of Einstein's on religion, faith, G-d, and Judaism. It attempts - somewhat successfully - to explain the general and special theories of relativity. I think it's a good book for its intended audience: middle school kids. I was impressed with the tone and tenor of the writing.

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Honestly, at the beginning I thought it was so boring, but then I kept reading and learned so much about Einstein. He was a troublemaker when he was younger, he created the theory of relativity and also create a university for Jews.