magicalstephie's review against another edition
3.0
interesting, though a bit dry at times. I learned a lot I didn't know previously!
peter_fischer's review against another edition
3.0
This is a very entertaining and yet profound book not only about the physics and chemistry of the periodic table, but at the same time about the people who helped construct it. Although I am a chemist, many of the anecdotes about famous scientist were new to me, including Linus Pauling getting the structure of DNA so totally wrong, or Gilbert Lewis (he of the Lewis acids and bases) never having won a Nobel prize, despite having made some of the most fundamental discoveries in physical chemistry. I have only one complaint: the author’s style, especially when being humorous, tends to become home-spun American and difficult to understand for non-Americans like myself. You would have thought that his publishing editors might have pointed this out.
lucysmom828's review against another edition
3.0
This is a book full of fun stories about the elements, and of course a lot of science. But be warned that some of this is dense. Having a basic understanding of chemistry would be helpful, as well as knowing that some of it will go over your head. My advise? Read (or listen) to the sentence and move on. Appreciate what you can, and leave the rest to the chemists.
leasummer's review against another edition
3.0
This was an interesting look at the periodic table of elements. I enjoyed the fascinating stories surrounding the elements and the discovery of elements. The author is a good story teller. The second half drew me in more, there was more storytelling. The beginning had a bit more of the particular science that was a little lost on me. It may also be that by the second half I had adjusted my thinking to be more science focused. I think the draw for this would be for those with more of a science background, but the stories surrounding the topics would be interesting to anyone.
Audiobook narration was great, engaging and easy to listen to and understand.
Audiobook narration was great, engaging and easy to listen to and understand.
a9f's review against another edition
4.0
Listened to the unabridged audiobook...
Great book, perfect blend of science and people (and their stories) behind the science. The last chapter tends a bit too far into theoretical science, eschewing story, and I became somewhat disinterested. The rest of the book, though, was very enjoyable.
Great book, perfect blend of science and people (and their stories) behind the science. The last chapter tends a bit too far into theoretical science, eschewing story, and I became somewhat disinterested. The rest of the book, though, was very enjoyable.
caseymalsam's review against another edition
2.0
I ended up giving up on this one. I thought it would be interesting (hoping for Mary Roach-like) instead I got a deep dive into science and less narrative story. Super technical. Not really what I was looking for.
nglofile's review against another edition
Not bad, but I had hoped for a writing style with a bit more popular appeal. The information is somewhat accessible yet still dry, not unlike a required science class with an enthusiastic teacher. I may go back to finish the last third, but it would be a hard sell for my audience.