So You Want to Learn Physics
This may seem somewhat unorthodox, but what I would strongly recommend is to start <i>not</i> by reading books on physics or math but read some books on <i>history</i> of physics (and math) first. This will give you some intangible basic knowledge, or a sense, of what scientific research is all about, so that many things that otherwise may end up being puzzling to you when you come to learn the &quot;hard science&quot;, won&#x27;t. One recommendation I can make is Rhodes&#x27; <i>The Making of the Atomic Bomb</i>.