I love books, that's why I write this blog. I also love science, which is why I picked up this book. But to say I love this book, well, that would be a gross understatement.
I resisted the subject of chemistry for the entire first semester I first took it in high school, which my grade most definitely reflected (it wasn't pretty). Luckily something wonderful happened the second semester. Perhaps a little learning by osmosis had occurred previously, or maybe I had just stared at the giant poster of the periodic table long enough, but suddenly everything clicked. Chemistry was amazing!
Amazing and fun! The table of elements became the like key code to that ultra secret language all the cool kids used in grade school, and unlike in years past, I was in on it.
That is of course not to say that chemistry isn't a challenging subject, it is! But making friends with that table and those atomic numbers is one the best relationships you can make.
And lucky for you, this book makes it easy! Visual learners will have a field day with the well represented history and uses of each element. While the truly scientific at heart will appreciate the concise language, clear descriptions, and logical layout and explanation of each element of the periodic table. And for the completely unscientifically inclined, this book is just plain cool. Our world is an amazing and wonder-filled place, and this book does a great job explaining all the different components that come together to make it that way.
Whatever kind of learner you are, or whatever your scientific inclinations, The Elements: A Visual Exploration of Every Known Atom in the Universe by Theodore Gray, definitely deserves a spot in your library. Who knows what it might inspire... you just might end up having an element named after you.
We haven't been able to put this book down since we got it, which of course means one of you lucky people is getting a copy, on us!
For a chance to win a copy of The Elements, simply leave a comment on this post by 8am MST Thursday September 5th. The winner will be chosen by random number and announced later that day.
The winner of The Elements Book Giveaway is...Karen who wrote:
"I have this book on loan right now from the library. Would LOVE my own copy!"
Thank you so much to everyone who participated!
~ Jordan
*Last time in books and stories: The Botany Coloring Book
