Physics Books for the Novice?

cornjchob asks: "I've been a Slashdot reader for quite sometime now, and I've seen alot of Physics articles posted. I've got a good understanding of alot of it, but that doesn't mean there's no room to improve. So what's some good reading material for Physics that will give you a good, solid foundation if you've missed something, and then give you some additional stuff? What about online articles or PDF's for us cheap folk? Quantum Mechanics is another subject area that--judging by alot of posts underneath the articles, at least--many of us could use some brushing up on. Any suggestions for books/articles/PDF's on that? Suggestions on anything pertinent to any of those would be great."

Comments

Dianetics!

[TheDick]

Great book, totally factual and easy to understand, though it can get a bit pricey......

Britney Spears Guide to Semiconductor Physics

[reg106]

For the physics behind lasers, transistors, and other semiconductor marvels, check out the Britney Spears Guide to Semiconductor Physics!

Learn from Homer J.

[GuyMannDude]

"So much I don't know about astrophysics. Why didn't I read that book by the wheelchair guy?"
--Homer J. Simpson

GMD

Spoiler!!

[GuyMannDude]

"The Elegant Universe: Superstrings, Hidden Dimensions, and the Quest for the Ultimate Theory" by Brian Greene. excellent read (although I'm only halfway through - there might be plot twists that I don't know about. ;)

At the very end, you never do find out the true nature of the universe. The author just leaves you hanging in an obvious lead-in for the sequel: "Elegant Universe II: The Wrath of God".

GMD