Ask most adults what they know about Albert Einstein and chances are they'll answer his hair and his theory of relativity.

For those interested in learning more about him, the just-released book "Einstein, Black Hole and Big Bang: the Miracle of Human and Nature" is a must-read.

And you don't even have to be good at science to enjoy it. The author Prof Pirat Thatchayapong, says readers are welcome to skip any parts they feel are too complex because his aim is not to blind with science.

"I want readers to feel they are reading an interesting story about Einstein's life, not a science textbook," he says.

"I wrote it for general release not for physics students."

The book, which is published by Nanmee Books, tells how Einstein, who was honoured as "Person of the Century" by Time magazine in 1999, was always in conflict with his teachers at both high school and university. That made it hard for the young Einstein to find a good job.

While his friends landed teaching positions, his first job was as a clerk at the department of intellectual property.

He made his entry to the world of science in 1905 at the age of 26 when he came up with his first special theory of relativity.

Nine years later he published the general theory of relativity and shot to world fame.

The book also reveals details of his love life - he married twice - and how he once tried to divorce his first wife by betting her that he would win the Nobel Prize and give it to her.

Unsurprisingly, he won it in 1922.

It's impossible to explain Einstein's life without mentioning the details of what he discovered.

The book tells of his scientific works and Big Bang and black hole theories, these being an easy way into an understanding of the man and his work. However, it also delves deeper.

Last year marked the centenary of Einstein's discovery of the theory of relativity.

"Besides Einstein's life, I also want to tell readers about his amazing ideas," said Pirat.

"And I am happy to receive any kind of feedback. You can tell me which parts of the book are too complicated - I will improve them in the next edition."

Pirat was the first director of the National Electronics and Computer Technology Centre and the National Science and Technology Development Agency.

He also served as secretary general of the Science Ministry.

Now retired, he works as a researcher and an adviser to the agency.

Chatrarat Kaewmorakot

The Nation