Written for students who have had little or no previous instruction in chemistry, or for those who need a thorough review, this interesting and informative text gives readers the background (and confidence) needed for subsequent success in college-level general chemistry courses. Honing selected portions for greater clarity in presentation, Stoker's book foregoes the multi-topic, “watered down” version of its counterparts by zeroing in on a smaller number of select topics, treating them extensively, and helping students understand them in greater depth.