February 1, 2018
This adaptation of a book for adults meanders through the history, uses, and misuses of the periodic table's elements. After a promising introduction about the author's childhood fascination with mercury, the first chapter bogs down in an explanation of atoms too brief for those new to chemistry to make much of it. A dull summary of the men who created the periodic table follows. Those who make it through the first chapters will be rewarded by more-interesting, even dramatic topics such as chemical warfare, atomic bombs, and poisonous elements. Kean has collected numerous anecdotes and groups them together loosely by similarities. While the stories within chapters tend to be chronological, the book zigzags back and forth through history. Almost all the players are adults, mostly white men, with the exception of a teenage boy who tried to build a nuclear reactor in his backyard. Occasional colloquialisms ("yuck") seem aimed at younger readers, but overall the adaptation makes few concessions to its audience. For example, the terms "quantum mechanics" and "nuclear fission" appear with little explanation. (A closing glossary helps to compensate for this.) The text refers to Albert Einstein's letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt about "starting the Manhattan Project" without further description, assuming readers have previous knowledge. Not for a general audience, this will most likely attract readers already in their element among beakers and Bunsen burners. (bibliography, index) (Nonfiction. 11-14)
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February 1, 2018
Gr 5-8-One may not think that a book about the periodic table will convey a great deal about counterfeiting, but such is the beauty of this title. It's not just about the elements. Rather, it rolls history and science and fascinating anecdotes into one volume. Adapted from his New York Times best seller of the same name, award-winning science writer Kean has boiled down his original work to about half the size (no Bunsen burner necessary), making it ideal for young readers. In doing so, he has managed to maintain his voice and keep the text stimulating. Kean uses the periodic table as a starting point to engage readers in history lessons, etymology, mythology, literature (Did you know Mark Twain wrote a short story based on some elements?), psychology, and more. The book is filled with fun facts and thought-provoking stories, such as how tin's properties may have affected a fatal Antarctic expedition and how an enterprising Boy Scout tried to build a nuclear reactor. The book is divided into four parts which are further distilled into chapters, enhancing its readability. The writing style is conversational and never dry. Several sidebars are sprinkled throughout that provide more information on some subjects. VERDICT An excellent purchase for libraries that want to liven up their science sections.-Marie Drucker, Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library, NY
Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
January 1, 2018
Grades 7-12 Even Amazon.com can't claim bubbles, bombs, toxins, money, alchemy, petty politics, history, crime, and love in one place. This history of the periodic table of elements, a young readers edition adapted from the adult best-seller, turns a seemingly dull topic into a treasure trove of scientific discovery. As Kean introduces such essentials as the periodic table castle, what an element is, fathers of the periodic table, and where elements come from, he weaves in stories of awe and amusement about pioneering scientists. From the CIA's (unattempted) plan to assassinate Fidel Castro with thallium to aluminum's 60-year reign as the world's most precious metal to the mood-stabilizing effects of lithium on poet Robert Lowell, the best tales derive from the elements themselves and bring together chemistry's relationship with economics, social history, politics, psychology, and even the arts. Although the author does an excellent job of explaining elements and chemical properties, students with a basic understanding of chemistry will appreciate his narrative more. This solution to dry lectures will spark a positive reaction in readers.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)
May 10, 2010
Science magazine reporter Kean views the periodic table as one of the great achievements of humankind, "an anthropological marvel," full of stories about our connection with the physical world. Funny, even chilling tales are associated with each element, and Kean relates many. The title refers to gallium (Ga, 31), which melts at 84˚F, prompting a practical joke among "chemical cognoscenti": shape gallium into spoons, "serve them with tea, and watch as your guests recoil when their Earl Grey ‘eats’ their utensils." Along with Dmitri Mendeleyev, the father of the periodic table, Kean is in his element as he presents a parade of entertaining anecdotes about scientists (mad and otherwise) while covering such topics as thallium (Tl, 81) poisoning, the invention of the silicon (Si, 14) transistor, and how the ruthenium (Ru, 44) fountain pen point made $400 million for the Parker company. With a constant flow of fun facts bubbling to the surface, Kean writes with wit, flair, and authority in a debut that will delight even general readers. 10 b&w illus.
January 1, 2019
Adapted by Adrian Dingle and Kelsey Kennedy. In this adaptation of Kean's adult title, the periodic table--its organization and elements--provides the framework for discussion about chemistry, biology, scientists, and the history of science. Kean includes explanations of elements in the universe, health, industry, warfare, art, and currency. Occasional sidebars and scientific illustrations throughout plus the appended periodic table provide further illumination for young readers. Bib., glos., ind.
(Copyright 2019 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)