Newton was an enigma. A scientific genius whose discoveries enabled a worldview without God, he was a passionate Christian whose private researches extended to alchemy, numerology and biblical prophecy. White's book is a careful and well-written account of both these sides, providing insights into Newton's inner life and his legacy.

Gareth Southwell is a philosopher, writer and illustrator.

This was a interesting read for the most part, however it could be dry at times which is why it took me so long to read it, but overall a good read into the life and times of Sir Isaac Newton. ( )

Overall, the book was good. The history was sound and the sources fairly legitimate. There are a few times when the author understands that some of the recesses of history are dark, but chooses to insert wishful thinking into them anyway. These are only minor distractions. The premise that Newton’s alchemy and his natural philosophy were necessary and symbiotic studies is an interesting one, and one that I think needs further exploration by a more balanced hand.

http://lifelongdewey.wordpress.com/2012/11/05/509-isaac-newton-by-michael-white/ ( )

A well written biography on the life and times of Isaac Newton. The author does particularly well in interspersing writings from Newton and others of that period.

The descriptions of his achievements are at a very readable level that the masses will easily follow. This may leave those with more of a scientific or mathematical bent wishing for more. ( )

I was expecting this to have more detail about the alchemical work, and certainly an open mind about it - I found White's contempt for Newton's beliefs difficult to take. And I agree with the previous reviewer that there is no decent biography of Newton which covers all aspects of the man. ( )