Quicksilver
by Neal Stephenson
I'm a voracious reader, but this epic book took me six months to finish. Many things distracted me along the way, so I can't claim dedication, and I can only imagine how long it would have taken to finish a book this long that I didn't enjoy.
Anyway the main plot outline: Part 1 - Daniel Waterhouse (see entry Cryptonomicon) is visited in Massachusetts by Enoch Root, to resolve a debate about the beginnings of calculus. Part 2 - Jack Shaftoe and Eliza survive countless adventures to arrive in Amsterdam (Jack leaves for Paris and more adventure) where Eliza begins her ascent to become a person of importance Part 3 - Daniel and Eliza's worlds become intertwined, Eliza bears a child, and Daniel's gallstones are removed, as he makes plans to sail to America (part 1 covers later in his life after he has spent many years in America).
Over 900 pages long, a short summary like this couldn't begin to cover even the basics.
The most interesting lessons I learned while reading this book were about how fascinating that era of history is, and how great minds often have a perpetual sense of curiosity about them. When combined with a certain level of persistence, amazing discoveries were made.
I wonder how long till I get to the second book?