The Einstein Scrapbook.

The curator of the Albert Einstein Archives at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem presents an engaging kaleidoscope of documents and photographs from Einstein's personal effects. The collection provides an interesting window through which to view this icon's scientific, political, and social contributions. The book opens with a timeline of the major events in Einstein's life along with images of his birth certificate, a report card (which illustrates that Einstein was, in fact, a good student), and a biography that depicts his family history. This is followed by an assortment of articles, pages from notebooks, and letters detailing the amazing breadth of his scientific legacy. A wealth of letters and speeches written on behalf of peace, freedom, and civil liberties illustrates his impact on behalf of these causes as well as his commitment to the values of Judaism. On a lighter note, the volume includes evidence of Einstein's passion for music and sailing as well as his correspondence with children. Rosenkranz provides context for the images. Photographs are well captioned, and letters and other writings are reprinted for easy reading. Originally published in Israel in 1998. Johns Hopkins, 2002, 1999 p., b&w photos/illus., hardcover, $22.50.