From the reviews:
“The information is presented as a collection of mostly unconnected essays, and the majority are very good. … The eclectic collection of chemicals (many depicted with full stereochemistry) is accompanied by informative and colourful illustrations. Finally, the book concludes with a 60 page introduction to chemistry … . the book does represent a brave and largely successful attempt to describe the importance of chemistry and chemicals.” (John Mann, Chemistry World, December, 2011)
“This most welcome book, intended for general readers, investigates the chemistry behind many everyday processes in the marketplace, at home, etc., and such various substances as poisons and pharmaceuticals. … The seven-part volume includes essays about remarkable chemicals and compounds that most people have heard of. … Each chapter can be read independently, and an in-depth appendix, ‘Essentials of Chemistry,’ is incorporated as a resource for readers seeking further details. … Summing Up: Recommended. Students of all levels and general audiences.” (M. Rossi, Choice, Vol. 49 (8), April, 2012)
Chemicals for Life and Living
von Eiichiro OchiaiChemicals often have a negative Image among the general public. But there is no material world or indeed human beings without chemicals. The material world is operated by chemicals. The title ‘Chemicals for Life and Living’ implies that the material world is staged and played by chemicals. The book consists of five parts and an appendix. Part 1 – Essentials for life; Part 2 – Enhancing health; Part 3 – For the fun of life; Part 4 – Chemistry of the universe and earth, and Part 5 - Some negative effects of chemicals. The appendix gives a brief summary of what chemistry is all about, including a short chapter of chemical principles. No quantitative calculations are included in this book so that it is appealing for everyone – not just chemists.
