Isaac Newton by James Gleick

This short biography lacks everything a biography needs - depth, focus, even interesting personal details. It is dry and chronological, and uses objectivity as a way of avoiding taking a stand on either Newton's genius or his obvious eccentricities. This is a man that changed the world, but Gleick merely paints him as a secluded scientist. He glosses over Newton's theology and interest in alchemy, sounding embarrassed that he has to mention them at all. In his attempt to show Newton's complexity, he leaves you with no feeling for the real man.