This sort of companion to Bryson's A Short History of Nearly Everything (bwl 21) concentrates on the (chemical, not meteorological!) elements. By means of fascinating anecdotes and cultural asides the reader - even the most chemically ignorant - is swept along on the current of Aldersey-William's love for his subject, the sense of the excitement of discovery and the enthralling way the elements shape and are part of our lives. A richly brilliant book!
(Annabel Bedini - bwl 65 Summer 2012 ) |
