Who said chemistry was complicated? The exact opposite is the case, as Klaus Roth demonstrates on his multifaceted expedition through our everyday lives.


Chemistry performs miracles when, for example, it turns the sap of the tropical rubber plant into a brightly colored balloon. Chemistry is delicious when sour coffee beans become a cup of aromatic espresso. Chemistry is art when it creates paints that young hands can safely use. Chemistry is a savior when it preserves endangered books and writing for future generations. Chemistry is a protector when the perfectly docile skunk teaches its aggressor an unforgettable lesson, or when butterflies eat toxic plants to protect themselves against their enemies. Chemistry is vegetable when a spoonful of pesto is added to spaghetti and forms a unique aroma. And chemistry is heavenly when bitter cocoa beans become a mouth-watering bar of chocolate.


You will be surprised by the chemical delicatessen Klaus Roth has prepared. His brilliantly written and tried-and-tested anecdotes lead us on a journey that solves many a puzzle, while also whetting our appetite for more: more chemistry.


A fascinating read for anyone interested in chemistry, not least due to its numerous illustrations, but also due to a whole series of didactic goodies that make it ideal for teaching chemistry at schools and colleges. Richly illustrated in full color throughout, with each page a delicacy, this volume makes for a beautiful present for yourself and others.