A biography of physicist Bruno Pontecorvo, Half Life is a fascinating insight into the life of a physics genius whose personal life unfortunately overshadowed his scientific breakthroughs. Frank Close, a noted particle physicist at Oxford University, takes us on a journey from Pontecorvo’s early years in Italy during World War Two through to his sudden defection to the Soviet Union, which fuelled accusations that he was a Soviet spy spilling western nuclear secrets. Readers familiar with Close’s writing will feel more comfortable with his scientific explanations than newcomers who may find some parts heavy going, but it is outside the laboratory where the story really shines. At times it feels more like a cold war spy novel as Pontecorvo’s life takes some extraordinary twists and turns, which will keep readers new and old glued until the end.
Book Review: Half Life: The Divided Life Of Bruno Pontecorvo, Physicist Or Spy by Frank Close
