Quantum Steampunk: The Physics of Yesterday's Tomorrow

by Nicole Yunger Halpern

The Industrial Revolution meets the quantum-technology revolution! A steampunk adventure guide to how mind-blowing quantum physics is transforming our understanding of information and energy.

Winner of the PROSE Award for Best Book in Popular Science and Popular Mathematics by the Association of American Publishers, Shortlisted for the Phi Beta Award in Science by the Phi Beta Kappa Society

Victorian era steam engines and particle physics may seem worlds (as well as centuries) apart, yet a new branch of science, quantum thermodynamics, reenvisions the scientific underpinnings of the Industrial Revolution through the lens of today's roaring quantum information revolution. Classical thermodynamics, understood as the study of engines, energy, and efficiency, needs reimagining to take advantage of quantum mechanics, the basic framework that explores the nature of reality by peering at minute matters, down to the momentum of a single particle.

In her exciting new book, intrepid Harvard-trained physicist Dr. Nicole Yunger Halpern introduces these concepts to the uninitiated with what she calls "quantum steampunk," after the fantastical genre that pairs futuristic technologies with Victorian sensibilities. While readers follow the adventures of a rag-tag steampunk crew on trains, dirigibles, and automobiles, they explore questions such as, "Can quantum physics revolutionize engines?" and "What deeper secrets can quantum information reveal about the trajectory of time?"

Yunger Halpern also describes her own adventures in the quantum universe and provides an insider's look at the work of the scientists obsessed with its technological promise. Moving from fundamental physics to cutting-edge experimental applications, Quantum Steampunk explores the field's aesthetic, shares its whimsy, and gazes into the potential of a quantum future. The result is a blast for fans of science, science fiction, and fantasy.

Genres: Science, Physics, Nonfiction, Steampunk, Quantum Mechanics, Technology, Popular Science

304 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 12, 2022

About the author

Nicole Yunger Halpern is a theoretical physicist at the Joint Center for Quantum Information and Computer Science in Maryland. Nicole re-envisions the science of energy, developed during the 1800s, for the 21st century, using the mathematical tools of quantum computing. She has dubbed this research “quantum steampunk,” after the steampunk genre of art and literature that juxtaposes Victorian settings with futuristic technologies. The field’s insights and aesthetic form the subject of her book for the general public, Quantum Steampunk: The Physics of Yesterday’s Tomorrow. The book received the PROSE Award for Popular Science and Mathematics from the Association of American Publishers, as well as being shortlisted for the Phi Beta Kappa Award in Science.

A co-valedictorian of Dartmouth College, Nicole earned her PhD at Caltech, winning the international Ilya Prigogine Prize for an energy-science thesis. She received the International Quantum Technology Emerging Researcher Award as a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard. After starting her own research group, Nicole received the US ASPIRE Prize for early-career scientists and the Mary Somerville Medal for science communication to the general public. Nicole has written over 100 articles for the blog Quantum Frontiers and suspects that a copy of her is a novelist in some parallel universe.

Reviews

[Clay Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

The print at the beginning of each chapter is small and difficult to read. The author writes that Will Smith played a sheriff in the movie The Wild, Wild West when the role was of a U.S. Army officer.

[Ralph Trickey · Rating 5 out of 5]

>> I developed a research program by smashing together quantum physics, information theory, and thermodynamics.

This basically describes what the book is about, she describes enough of each of these fields in English so you can understand the basics of her thesis which I believe is on an offshoot of Quantum Information Theory(or maybe Quantum Thermodynamics), with examples from a Victorian society that developed everything along the lines of the steam engine instead of the internal combustion engine. I found it interesting to sample these fields and learned more about a few things like WHY Maxwell's demon was troubling to physicists at that time. The fact that the examples were limited to steam technology added a little flair and a theme.

I found it comprehensible as a guide to the basics of the fields and how they're related. I'm going to have to reread it in a year or so to see what I missed.

[Erickson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finished this book on a 14-hour flight.

At first, I didn't like this book (up to the first 30%) because the literary language, metaphor and fictional stories used in the book were too distracting and (for me) hard to follow, and some of the analogies were just over the top. It was enough for me to stop reading at that time and didn't bother picking it up.

The 14-hour flight was a good time to give this book a chance and perhaps finish it for good (and indeed, I managed to finish it about 30 minutes before reaching the airport at the final destination). I think near the end I have found the book to be more enjoyable as time passes by, so perhaps I was too harsh. I still find the metaphors, analogies and the writing style somewhat too "flowery" (read: distracting) to my taste, hence 4 stars rather than 5 stars, but I have to admit this is personal preference.

In hindsight, it takes a lot of skills to be able to do this, and I think beyond the first 30% a lot of these uses are actually accurate and perhaps even helpful for people who are not working in theoretical physics research (let alone in quantum thermodynamics). I even found some of these eventually useful, like when she was trying to explain majorization using redistribution of wealth. That was, to me, extremely relevant and intuitive even though I know the definition of majorization. In contrast, in other cases (like using animals to frame the definitions of heat and work) were not useful at all for me.

I also want to commend Nicole the author for being honest about the state of the art at the right time. Like when something such as resource theory is about theory in principle and fundamental physics rather than practicality, or like whether quantum thermodynamics will revolutionize the world. Without these, I would have found the insertions of her own personal experiences somewhat too much, but now I find those to be both relevant (as a physicist) and insightful, as it tells a little about how she sees herself in the growing field and how she navigates career choices (like what to work on and what not to work on). The footnotes are also very useful.

Overall, if you can see past (or even like) flowery proses in physics books, I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone interested in (quantum) thermodynamics. Till today I still have slight issue with trying to "frame" this whole interesting field as a "quantum steampunk" which to me is not necessary to make it relevant and interesting, but I guess if it does not create any damage to the practitioners I think it is fine. In that respect, the book does deliver the "quantum steampunk" elements that the author intended.

[C.J. · Rating 3 out of 5]

A wild theoretical run into the what-if's of a world that veered into steam-powered technology encountering quantum physics at a parallel pace to our own. It's greatest strength is in stretching wonder, and playing with quantum mechanics in a way that inevitably remains memorable, intermingled as it is with steampunk storylines and alternate history quirks. Its weaknesses lie in clunky prose and lack of formal cohesion in the story side. A fantastic launchpoint for personal revision and pondering; a bit of a rag-end of a book on its own; but all in all, a premise worth the paper and a fun jaunt into actual and potential aspects of the world.

[David Schwan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting book. Gives a good introduction to Quantum Thermodynamics, and along the way basic quantum theory, information theory and lastly classical thermodynamics. No equations, which in a few places is a bit frustrating but overall it works. When I took quantum mechanics in college there was not much emphasis on spin which seems central to quantum computing. While entanglement is covered, it would have been nice to see more explanation of entanglement. Also missing is a discussion of thermal noise and its impact on entanglement.

[Bkallday · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love reading about physics. I almost majored in it in college, but 8AM classes, calculus, and pledging a fraternity do not mix well, and alas I did not. Perhaps for the better, because I enjoy the life I have, which affords me the opportunities to read popular-audience science books, like Quantum Steampunk.

I heard about this on a podcast when the author, Nicole Yunger Halpern, was doing the book-release rounds in early 2022. I am not a particular fan of the steampunk genre, but harbor no feelings against it (although be-goggled top hats are not for me), but the ideas she discussed fascinated me. After finishing the book, I relistened to that episode, plus a more recent interview with Yunger Halpern. She is brilliant, and in these interviews is great at explaining complex topics in an approachable manner, where it seems like I understand what I’m hearing.

The book, however, was less clear to me. It covers the relatively young and niche subfield of quantum information science, or quantum thermodynamics, and related sub-subfields. Which blends advanced mathematics, quantum physics, statistical mechanics, and other complex scientific disciplines at the cutting edge of theory and experiment. Without mathematical rigor, however, I think some of these topics (fluctuation relations, resource theory) just do not translate well to a lay-person’s explanation.

To give Younger Halpern the benefit of the doubt, maybe I’m just obtuse, and didn’t devote enough time to properly understanding the text. I also read mostly at the end of the day, and when tired and drowsing, grappling the most complex topics currently known to humanity would be difficult for anyone. These are all probable causes, contributing factors to me not fully getting it.

That said, Yunger Halpern weaves throughout the science a steampunk vignette and related imagery. To me, the box of illustrative “gas in a box” scenario is an ornate, brass cannister with wires, dials, tubes, and latches, powered by some sort of concertinaing steam pump off screen. When she presents these profound ideas, she does so with the stylistic flourish promised by the title. The book as physical object is also gorgeous, with chapter headings and drawings all evocative of the future imagined by Victorian England.

Overall, I think it was worth a read, and thought provoking in many ways, but was a bit beyond my grasp.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Quantum Steampunk: The Physics of Yesterday’s Tomorrow” is a brilliant and enjoyable book that explores the connections between quantum physics, thermodynamics, and information theory, using the imaginative lens of steampunk. It is also the winner of the PROSE Award for Best Book in Popular Science and Popular Mathematics by the Association of American Publishers. The author, Dr. Nicole Yunger Halpern, is a Harvard-trained physicist and a talented storyteller, who combines her scientific expertise and creative flair to introduce the listener to the wonders of the quantum world.

The book is structured as a series of steampunk adventures, featuring a diverse and quirky crew of characters, such as a clockwork cat, a mechanical dragon, a steam-powered computer, and a time-traveling engineer. Each chapter focuses on a different aspect of quantum thermodynamics, such as engines, entropy, heat, work, and time. Along the way, the listener learns about the history and foundations of thermodynamics, the paradoxes and puzzles of quantum mechanics, and the emerging applications and challenges of quantum information science.

The audiobook is narrated by Raechel Wong, who does an excellent job of bringing the characters and concepts to life with her expressive and engaging voice. She also adds some sound effects and music that enhance the steampunk atmosphere and the mood of the story. Wong captures the humor, wit, and creativity of the author, and makes the book a delightful and entertaining listen.

The book is suitable for anyone who is curious about quantum physics and its implications for our understanding of reality, information, and technology. It does not require any prior knowledge of physics or mathematics, as the author explains the concepts in a clear and intuitive way, using analogies, examples, and illustrations. The book is also full of humor, wit, and creativity, making it a delightful and entertaining read.

“Quantum Steampunk: The Physics of Yesterday’s Tomorrow” is a unique and original book that blends science, fiction, and fantasy in a captivating and inspiring way. It is a book that will make you think, laugh, and marvel at the beauty and mystery of the quantum universe. It is a book that will spark your imagination and your curiosity, and make you want to learn more about the physics of yesterday’s tomorrow.

[Jeffrey P · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this book. Unfortunately it suffers from too many names and dates, too many quaint but irrelevant analogies, and too many times where the author says "...but that's beyond the scope of this book."

The author is at her best when she's demonstrating quantum thermodynamics with thought experiments like gas-filled boxes.

I gave up ¾ of the way through, having never really learned what "quantum Steampunk" was meant to be other than an excuse to introduce three Victorian era amateur scientists whose antics were meant to tie together the books chapters, but didn't.

[Prova]

Prova

[Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The scientific explanations are accessible while still being accurate. The book gives excellent insights into contemporary concepts in quantum physics, quantum thermodynamics, and quantum information. What stood out for me, though, is how well the book captures the thrill and inspiration of scientific exploration. The entertaining analogies and illustrations lend a levity, cheerfulness and charm to the book as well :). Highly recommend!

[Larry Merkle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This popular science introduction to the intimidating-sounding field of quantum thermodynamics has something to offer to complete novices as well as to those with some pre-existing knowledge. The experiences of both types of readers will benefit significantly from Nicole Yunger Halpern's playful style and incorporation of her love of steampunk fiction via vignettes opening each chapter, along with her frequent analogies between quantum thermodynamics and "quantum steampunk."

An introductory overview chapter, which computer scientists will appreciate the author having designated Chapter 0, is followed by chapters introducing the essential areas of knowledge of Information Theory, Quantum Physics, Quantum Computation, and Quantum Thermodynamics. Chapter 5 then integrates these essential areas to characterize the field of quantum thermodynamics. These chapters are accessible to and offer the most to novice readers, although researchers will appreciate the references the author includes.

The following seven chapters give the reader a whirlwind tour of various applications of quantum thermodynamics and some of its intersections with other scientific disciplines. A possible criticism of these chapters is that the author may not have had a clear idea of the audience. Novices will be wholly lost. Those readers entering with modest amounts of relevant knowledge (e.g., this quantum computing researcher) will appreciate being made aware of the topics. However, they may be frustrated by the number of results that are stated with less than complete explanation or justification. They will almost certainly find the references to be the most valuable elements of these chapters.

The final two chapters look forward to future developments within quantum thermodynamics and at its interdisciplinary frontiers.

[Jordi Martinez · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book on a field in Science that gets into the spotlight very rarely, thermodynamics. The author is a scientist that has been working in a field that is so new that she can even name after genre literature: Quantum Steampunk.

In a word, the field is a combination of Thermodynamics with Quantum Theory with a plus of a postmodern touch. That said, the book is very serious with its presenting of the different discoveries, ongoing investigation works, and new sub-fields that popped up in recent years.

The author is exhaustive in her exploration of all that above. Unless you have some background in Physics, it can be overwhelming. She does not use maths, but at the same time she does not compromise and explains everything as it deserves to be understandable but rigorous at the same time.

Reading the book you never get the feeling that the author is one of those big names in Science. On the contrary, she is capable of communicating how being a real scientist really is. I found this different and I am sure books written this way for scientists like the author would pull more young people into Science than those big books from Nobel Prize awarded authors.

The book excels in providing an overview of all the related fields and ongoing lines of investigation as they were at the time of writing. I did not find the short fiction stories than open every chapter that interesting though. They are colourful, but I did not find them engaging enough.

Overall a great Science book for audiences with some background in Physics.

[Rick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't think that this book is good as an introduction to the physics inside it. I think that the explanations of quantum physics concepts mostly alternate between bare and obscure. On the flipside, this opens up a lot of space for modern ideas and research, which this book is a very valuable introduction to. I was interested by much of the research in this book and found the references very valuable. I plan to keep this book nearby in the hope that I can riff of the ideas in it.

The 'steampunk' introductions to each chapter were fairly charming, but I could have done without them. I kept forgetting which character was which and kind of just wanted to get on with the physics topics.

I'm unsure of how I feel about Nicole's self-narrative through the book. As a young physicist whose direction is uncertain, I have trouble accepting that her path was so straightforward. Is the cohesive narrative in retrospect? How long does someone have to be interested in a topic and how long do they have to study it to really internalize a topic as dear to them? There's some cognitive dissonance on my end.

I appreciated the sections on the usefulness of some of the work entailed. This is a topic I struggle with in certain research areas, and I liked the author's honesty. It seems like a lot of quantum physics is reserved for precision measurements in the lab, and finding a 'human-scale' use case is very rare.

[Stephen Talabac · Rating 5 out of 5]

Developed in the 1700s, the steam engine was destined to become the cutting edge technology of its day: literally and figuratively it powered the Victorian era industrial revolution. Fast forward 100 years. In the 1800s the engineer Sadi Carnot applied mathematics to quantify the efficiency of the then ubiquitous steam engines. How, Carnot wondered, could one control the energy associated with the random motion of myriads of nearly invisible water droplets that yielded a chaotic form of energy termed heat, into a more structured and controllable form of energy? This was no idle academic exercise. A deeper conceptual understanding of the physics of heat, temperature and energy, coupled with an accurate mathematical description of their dynamic interrelationships, could enable steam engine useful work output to be maximized. Understanding and solving this fundamental scientific problem would yield immediate benefits to society since it could significantly increase the efficiency, and therefore the productivity, of the Victorian era’s rapidly growing steam-powered manufacturing and mining industries. This scientific endeavor became known, aptly, as thermodynamics.

Fast forward another 100 years to the 1900s. Blacksmiths heating steel in their coal-fueled forges were very familiar with the fact that as the temperature of the steel increased, it would initially glow a dull red, become a brighter red, then orange, and eventually white hot. At the time, physicists described light as having wavelike properties. They knew that the different colors of the spectrum were due to the unique wavelength of each color. And it was assumed that these wavelengths could take on any conceivable numerical value as in the familiar continuous spectrum of colors produced by prisms. Mathematics was developed to express the relationship between any emitted energy level to a unique wavelength value. Yet, this mathematical model was flawed: it did not correctly predict what was observed. In fact the mathematics suggested that, under certain conditions, an infinite amount of energy would be emitted. The embarrassing failure of the mathematical description to accurately represent emitted energy as a continuous wavelike property meant that this “classical” understanding of what energy is, and therefore the fundamental scientific basis for how nature works, was simply wrong. Scientists had to reassess the inner workings of nature; specifically the fundamental relationship between energy and color. At the turn of the 20th century a radically new concept of energy, envisioned by Einstein as tiny bundles or packets (he called them quanta) having discrete numerical values was introduced to the world. Rather than having any conceivable numerical values (akin to the continuously changing slope of a hillside), each energy level must instead have only certain allowed discrete values (akin to the individual rungs of a step ladder). This new deeper vision of the true essence of what energy is was called quantum mechanics.

Along with Einstein’s theory of general relativity, quantum mechanics is the most successful scientific theory ever developed by the human intellect. The ability of quantum mechanics to characterize the properties of the fundamental particles and forces of nature as measured experimentally is mind bogglingly precise. Yet, quantum mechanics goes against all notion of common sense simply because quantum processes operate at a scale so inconceivably small that humans simply did not evolve to experience them directly. Yet, whether we like it or not, nature is undeniably quantum mechanical.

Characterized as “mysterious”, a “conundrum”, and even a “paradox”, it’s perhaps no surprise that even the renowned theoretical physicist and Nobel laureate, Richard Feynman, quipped in one of his public lectures: “What I am going to tell you about is what we teach our physics students in the third or fourth year of graduate school. It is my task to convince you not to turn away because you don't understand it. You see my physics students don't understand it. That is because I don't understand it. Nobody does”. And yet, without quantum mechanics, technologies that we do not give a second thought to, such as cell phones, computers, LEDs, lasers, CT scans, and so many more, would simply not exist.

Quantum Steampunk author Nicole Yunger Halpern, in collaboration with other scientists worldwide, is contributing to re-examining and developing an even deeper understanding of thermodynamics in the context of quantum mechanics. Quantum thermodynamics has the potential to significantly advance the breadth and depth of quantum mechanics and thus our understanding of nature itself. Ongoing research and development in quantum thermodynamics will contribute to: information processing and today’s emerging technology of quantum computing; a deeper understanding of the role quantum processes play in chemistry and biology; furthering our understanding of the processes occurring in black holes that ultimately drive the formation and evolution of galaxies and stars and thus the creation of the elements that are the building blocks of life.

Yunger Halpern makes no presumption about the reader’s scientific and mathematical background. She assumes a “general educated layperson” and, not to worry, there are no equations. In each chapter she gently, and often humorously, leads in with an excerpt from a hypothetical Victorian-era steampunk novel that prepares the reader for the technical matter to come.

Having read many books on quantum mechanics, its history, and the mathematics that serves as its basis, it was a pleasure to read Yunger Halpern’s easy-to-understand explanations of what can otherwise be challenging, strangely counter-intuitive concepts to fully grasp and digest. Quantum Steampunk is a superb read for the layperson that wants to gain an understanding of how tentative steps into this emerging field of physics will serve as a springboard toward an even deeper understanding, and appreciation, of Mother Nature and the innovative science and technologies that are likely to be realized in the decades to come. The Harvard Bookstore noted in its review: “The result is a blast for fans of science, science fiction, and fantasy”. I, for one, wholeheartedly agree.

[Irene · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice try, but some of the information was either wrong or misleading. For example, the spin of entangled electrons is not the same, but opposite. Yet the author says: "When Audrey measures her spin, she disturbs it, inducing it to point along one direction. Her measurement, with the entanglement, induces Baxter’s spin to point along the same direction." Maybe I misunderstood, but she seems to be saying that entangled spins are identical, not complementary.

The other problem I had with the book is the author's constant name-dropping, which emphasizes her relationship to la-dee-dah institutions and famous scientists. Some of this is ok at the beginning to explain why she is qualified to write this book ("I write this book as a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard University and the Smithsonian Institution’s Institute for Theoretical Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics. By the time the book is published, I’ll be building a research group as a physicist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the University of Maryland") but similar statements sprinkled throughout the book get old fast.

Anyway, it was ok. I love steampunk, so I enjoyed Audrey and Baxter, but her explanations didn't always explain things clearly or accurately, the topics changed randomly, and I ended up with more questions than answers.

[Hartwig Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book «Quantum Steampunk» by Yunger Halpern is disguised as a work of Science Fiction «that incorporates retrofuturistic technology and aesthetics inspired by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery» (Wikipedia). However, it is almost all about Science and only marginally contains bits of Fiction at the beginning of each chapter.
The expression «Quantum Steampunk» is used as a short form for «Thermodynamics – Information Theory – Quantum Computation».
The book is a rather personal introduction and review of exciting new Physics of the last decade by a physicist actively contributing to the field. It is full of explanations for lay people using all kinds of metaphors and avoiding almost all formulas.
If you – like me – are bored by small-talk but find any professional talking about their work passionately fascinating, then this book is for you, even if you don't remember any physics from high school. You will end up with a good overview impression of what these physicists are occupied with. If you are a physicist you may still find the capricious presentation amusing and informative and be grateful for a review with quotations of all the original articles.

[John Millard · Rating 5 out of 5]

There was a time when this man

https://www.google.com/search?q=feynm...

famously said that no one understands Quantum Mechanics. He was beyond my understanding back when so these young brave new theorists and experimentalists who seem undaunted by such a statement appear to be blazing new trails. This book is interesting but only because I am not qualified to give it a proper review. I do understand some of her basic premises and explanations but when it comes down to it: I am LOST and happy to be. My friend Dave gave me this book so I will have to thank him for putting pain to my cranium Steampunk Style (stealing from Tairie B). I Will keep this one and maybe, if lucky, will give it another read in a few years after I smarten up a bit.

Loved it. Thanks for the humbling read 😏

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each chapter in this book oozes with charm and illumination, making the hidden and contradictory world of quantum reality not only accessible to those curious about quantum phenomena but also an exhilarating ride into the wonderful possibilities of a quantum future. Richard Feynman once famously said, “If you think you understand quantum mechanics, you don’t understand quantum mechanics.” With apologies to Dr. Feynman, I would counter, “But you haven’t read Quantum Steampunk!” In all seriousness, this book is prudent in its claims but mind-bending in its illustrations of quantum principles. By applying a “steampunk” filter, it transforms the fuzziness of reality and, like light refracting through a prism, reveals the rainbow.

[Chris · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice intro to the world of Quantum Weirdness written for non science people. I have more understanding than most people of what is discussed having majored in Astrophysics. Granted i got my undergrad degree and never went further down the quantum realm of a grad program. This gives a nice abridged history of physics but i wanted a bit more of how all the quantum strangeness could lead to practical everyday use. Even in fiction these concepts are rarely fleshed out enough and wanted an expert to go the extra step.

Would make a great read for any physics/engineer undergrad to prepare for the intro to quantum physics course.

[Pamela Bromberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some time ago, an inquisitive fifth grade student gazed into my eyes and said, “I wish that I could just find something that I could learn forever.” I’d like to think that somehow I could credit myself for my former student’s commitment to a lifetime of learning. In fact, this once, starry-eyed student has exceeded all expectations, perhaps even her own. Today, Dr. Nicole Yunger Halpern stands shoulder to shoulder with the most prominent men and women in the field of quantum physics.

In Quantum Steampunk - The Physics of Yesterday’s Tomorrow Nicole’s aspirations of becoming a novelist merge with the ever-evolving science of quantum theory.

Finally, Dr. Yunger Halpern’s masterpiece brings the complexities of quantum theory to a place where most of us can comprehend a myriad of topics and takes us on a welcoming and entangled journey through the physics of the past into the promises of what is to come in our future. Hopefully, Dr. Yunger Halpern will grace us with a sequel? I have a sneaky suspicion that she will, indeed…

Pamela Bono Bromberg

[Alex Khan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bought it for my daughter, but started reading it. Now she might have to wait.

Nicole Yunger Halpern has fantasized and romanticized quantum mechanics, mechanical engineering, and thermodynamics in her book unlike I would ever have thought possible. The book weaves quantum computing topics along with taking the reader into the quantum steampunk world of Audrey, and it motivates you to want to get to the next chapter; however, first you must understand more details of her world, or is it the world fast approaching us? I guess we will have to wait and see. A valuable contribution and undoubtedly creative effort to get a broader audience interested in quantum information science.

[Muhip Tezcan · Rating 4 out of 5]

"entropi, fiziğin karaciğeridir"

kuantum fiziği, bilgi teorisi ve termodinamiğin kesiştiği alanda çalışmalar yürüten fizikçimiz kendi alanını eğlenceli ve akıcı bir dille anlatıyor. her bölümün başındaki kısa steampunk hikayeleri konulara girişi kolaylaştırıyor.

yine de sonlara doğru iyice kafam yandı, dumanlar çıkmaya başladı. yazar ne kadar halka inmeye çalışırsa çalışsın, üçü de birbirinden zor üç konunun birleşiminden oluşan bir alandan bahsediyoruz sonuçta. anlaması kolay değil.

audible'dan dinledim. seslendirmesi baya güzel.

[Donnie Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The inter-mixing of a fictional story along with the scientific facts was amazing, and added to the enjoyment of reading, and also thanks for not including a single equation in the text, even though I worked at Lawrence Livermore National Lab for 35 years as a physics tech. developing low energy x-ray diagnostic instruments, I didn't have to wade through any of that pesky math to get to the good parts. Looking fwd. to your next book.

[Ricky]

A challenging book. My wife and I read this aloud to each other. With no real background in quantum physics many of the terms and concepts were difficult. But the sheer practice of annunciating the words and the author's careful layman like effort in writing this work made grasping some of it accessible. My love of steampunk stories and technical Sci-fi also helped me understand in a general way some of this subject matter. It did create some good discussions between me and my wife as we read.

[Bob Wilkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a charming book, and fun to read. It is clever, and enticing. And the author manages to slip some technical content in, in a painless way.

This author is so gifted that I am going to hope that she eventually honors us with more books in a similar vein.

It could even be a "steampunk series".

I highly recommend this book. It allows entry into a thriving and exciting new area of science, that is just being revealed. This is fantastic stuff!

[Blair Conrad · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to like it more. I generally enjoyed the author's style, but felt the book dragged as it went on. Maybe I wasn't paying enough attention, but the concept just kept getting more abstract as we went, and I didn't keep up. Also, I'd drop the "novel" conceit: it didn't do enough to support the content, IMO. Also, "liver" was overused. Funny the first 2 or 3 times, but after that it grated, and I generally enjoy running a joke into the ground...

[Co Co · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author tries to explain some very difficult science in simple language, but for me it didn't explain enough. I was left feeling like I read a dictionary list of subfields related to quantum thermodynamics and information, instead of really understanding what any of them are. Still the topics covered were novel and exciting and turned me towards other books and papers on the subjects. It's also extremely well cited.

[Ellen Novoseller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book so much! Yunger Halpern weaves truly beautiful explanations of science together with funny and interesting stories. I’m learned a huge amount about topics in physics I’ve always wanted to better understand, and love the storytelling, poetic writing style, and literary references throughout.

[Shalom · Rating 3 out of 5]

A valiant attempt, beautifully written and illustrated, which uses every trick in the book to keep the reader interested and make the concepts accessible. But at the cost of failing to convey much content! At least for this aging physics major, a few equations might have helped. Did not quite finish.

[Barry Fearnley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is interesting and thought provoking. I particularly like the 'imaginative novel' piece before each chapter. At first I wondered where this was taking me and what was the purpose, however, it quickly became apparent that that short piece was interwoven within the chapter to further explain complex concepts. A novel approach, but works tremendously. A good read and would recommend.