Tarcher Napoleon'S Buttons: How 17 Molecules Changed History

This is by far the most interesting book I've read this year (and is a definite contender for the "all-time" best, as well!) The premise of the book is "17 molecules that changed history." From cotton to caffeine, scopolamine to saponin, this book colorfully lays out both the chemical nature of these significant molecules, explaining how they function and WHY they work the way they do; it also illustrates the historical impact, going into great detail about how the course of history was heavily affected by the molecular properties of the topical substance. I find that when I'm learning something, the more connections I can form with an idea, the stronger my memory -- this book is a powerhouse in that regard; the knowledge of the structural nature of these compounds (at least the relevant functional groups, anyways) coupled with the historical relevance, creates memorable, almost mnemonic, impressions in my mind. For anyone that's a trivia buff, a science (particularly chemistry) or history afficionado, or just someone that loves to learn, I highly recommend this book.

Sono rimasto piacevolmente sorpreso da come gli autori non abbiano lesinato sulle formule chimiche, ma abbiano deciso di renderle la chimica organica chiara e avvincente, immersa nella storia

For anybody with a knowledge of high school chemistry , the book is an excellent read

This book is not only about the history of chemistry but about the role of chemistry (and science) in our society, as the subtitle points out. Easy to read, this book is not (only) for Chenistis, a good exercise of divulgation. An excellent way of spending some money and time with this enjoyable book.

Excellent book