“A lucid, enjoyable collection . . . that, element by element, demystifies the iconic periodic table.” (Kirkus Reviews )
“[C]harming. . . . Aldersey-Williams writes with simplicity and elegance. The stories may not help you on your next chemistry test, but they’ll help you appreciate the building blocks that are all around us yet all too easy to overlook.” (Associated Press )
“[A] virtuoso tour of the periodic table.” (Publishers Weekly )
“Aldersey-Williams’s playful, hands-on approach to scientific exploration shines through the book.” (Boston Globe )
For the UK edition: “[F]ascinating and beautiful. . . . If only chemistry had been like this at school. . . . [A] rich compilation of delicious tales.” (Matt Ridley,
Prospect Magazine )
Owner Reviews, Ratings, Comments and Criticism
A whimsical account of several of the elements in the periodic table. We get some social culture and some history of science. What makes this a pretty charming book is its style of writing. It is written in a personal and very readable way. It is not at all encyclopaedic so don't expect too much if you're looking for something serious. This is a great read on a long-haul fight or when you just want to kill some time and don't mind picking up some marginal knowledge along the way. You don't need any chemistry knowledge to enjoy this book. The book is hardcover, but is printed on low quality paperback paper, so it probably makes good sense to wait for the pocket edition. For the content of the book I would rate it four stars.
