Aimed at advanced undergraduates with background knowledge of classical mechanics and electricity and magnetism, this textbook presents both the particle dynamics relevant to general relativity, and the field dynamics necessary to understand the theory. Focusing on action extremization, the book develops the structure and predictions of general relativity by analogy with familiar physical systems. Topics ranging from classical field theory to minimal surfaces and relativistic strings are covered in a homogeneous manner. Nearly 150 exercises and numerous examples throughout the textbook enable students to test their understanding of the material covered. A tensor manipulation package to help students overcome the computational challenge associated with general relativity is available on a site hosted by the author. A link to this and to a solutions manual can be found at www.cambridge.org/9780521762458.

'The style is informal and very readable, with detailed explanations, frequent summaries of what has been achieved and pointers to what is about to follow … The author negotiates the challenge between readability and technical accuracy with admirable skill, striking a balance that will be much appreciated by the target audience. … Overall, Franklin's book is an excellent addition to the literature, and its readability and explicitness will be appreciated by the target audience. Should I be teaching an introductory undergraduate class in general relativity in the near future, I would seriously consider this book for the main class text.'

Source: Classical and Quantum Gravity