The discussion highlights varied opinions on "The Elegant Universe," with many praising its ability to clarify complex concepts, particularly in relativity. Some readers found it to be a great introduction to fundamental physics, while others felt it was overly lengthy in certain explanations. Comparisons were made to other popular science books, with some preferring "A Brief History of Time" or "The Universe in a Nutshell" for their conciseness. Despite mixed feelings on its depth, the book is recognized for its acclaim, having won the Aventis Science Book Prize and achieving bestseller status. Overall, it serves as a valuable resource for those interested in string theory and theoretical physics.