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meags1's review
3.0
Would have been more enjoyabe to read in sections over time, but it was overdue, haha.
scottishclaire's review
4.0
Particularly enjoyed the elements in a cultural and art historical context. Popular science embracing the arts.
velocitygirl14's review
3.0
It was a really quirky and cute book that tells a great story of all the major elements, chemical research and how the periodic table came to be. I enjoyed it and felt that it was overlapping quite a bit with "The Disappearing Spoon" and thus making it the great compliment for that book. This one though, I felt was more personal and more continental than the other and the author's tone shows this to great advantage. Awesome book.
jjweisman's review
3.0
Organization is the genius of the periodic table. Its deviation from that scheme is the genius of this book, which shines despite the author's preposterous assertions on non-chemical subjects (Latin words are derived from Sanskrit, ne?)
hilaritas's review
3.0
This book is very similar to "The Disappearing Spoon" in subject although it differs in execution. It's less playful and more focused on the personalities and locations behind the discovery of the elements. It's also less accessible and less satisfying. Often the author alludes to anecdotes or properties of elements without giving the details, leaving the reader somewhat frustrated with the course of the narrative. It was a good read and a welcome addition to the shelf of "elemental books" but if I had to pick one, I'd definitely choose "Spoon."
stephend81d5's review
3.0
interesting read reads more like a collection of different articles looking at the elements
halfmanhalfbook's review
4.0
For all those that avoided chemistry at school this is the book for you! Aldersey-Williams writes about the discovery, history and the uses of the elements that go to make up every thing that you use and touch. Fascinating and written with a light touch for all non-scientists.
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