This book is definitely unique.
It starts off much like nonfiction, drawing the reader in by painting a dark line from the Zyklon B gas used in concentration camps to a pigment celebrated for its vibrancy. All that Labatut says in this chapter is true, and reads much like something by Bill Bryson: an easy read interspersed with facts and connections that grips the reader.
While it might seem like this writing style would eventually transition to discussing how scientists discovered quantum mechanics, and maybe some deep connection with a wildly different field, it slowly transitions to examine the minds responsible.
While no one can truly understand the excitement and fear of genius at work (unless you are one), it’s interesting that Labatut provides a meta-commentary regarding the thought process. The bulk of the book eventually lands on just two characters Schrödinger and Heisenberg, and using real events in their lives, paint their discoveries in a sometimes lurid but often transcendental light.
I never thought I would say this about a book ultimately about these physicists, but there were aspects when I thought it was Lolita-esque and I was uncomfortable. But I do recommend the reader to do a little research afterwards.