Over the last few years many folks have noted the demise of home chemistry sets and other hands-on opportunities. I echo many of the same thoughts. One of the joys of my youth was playing around, that is experimenting. We scavenged microscopes and other discarded equipment when we could. We also had the more organized opportunities in the form of commercially available chemistry sets and biology kits. Alas the decent and useful chemistry sets are gone. Without going in to the details, suffice to say that I loved my chemistry set and still relish those youthful memories. I have long lamented the fact that you can no longer buy a decent home chemistry set.
Thompson's book addresses this problem and fills a much needed niche. This by far the best how-to chemistry book around if you want to setup your own chemistry lab and conduct experiments at home. If you like scrounging around and really getting getting your hand dirty, this book is a great guide. If you want dry, stuffy lectures you won't find it here. This book is interesting and fun.
This is a real how-to book that addresses the practical issues of setting up a chemistry lab and conducting experiments. In addition to the chapters that deal with the actual experiments, there are chapters on safety, equipment, and where to find chemicals. There is also good discussion about the disposal of chemicals and a realistic and practical discussion about the dangers of chemicals.
I've had a copy of the book for a couple of months. I've had the opportunity to read much of it and actually try some of the experiments. I don't have a lot of room for a lab but that hasn't stopped me from experimenting. I originally obtained the book for my son but I have to admit I find it more interesting and useful than he does. While he is interested in chemistry and has enjoyed out experiments he is too busy with other things to really get into it at the moment. I hope that will change after the summer ends and we settle in for the winter. I plan to incorporate chemistry into our home schooling program and this book is the perfect tool to help guide my efforts.
The bottom line is that this book is educational, practical and fun. I recommend it for anyone interested in learning about basic practical chemistry. If you are a parent and your child is interested in chemistry you need this book. It will be invaluable for home school parents who plan to teach chemistry and as a supplement for high school chemistry students. I would not be surprised to find that chemistry teachers adopted this book in their own curriculum.
"By teaching professional methodologies and trusting his readers to follow them, Thompson has done a huge service to smart kids everywhere. [Illustrated Guide to Home Chemistry Experiments] brings home chemistry back to the good ol' days.
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--John Baichtal, GeekDad
