The Secret Lives of the Elements

The Secret Lives of the Elements by Kathryn Harkup offers an intriguing journey through the atomic world, perfect for those looking to escape our human-sized existence. As Helen Arney, science comedian and broadcaster, states: 'The perfect book to escape our human-sized existence and take a tour of the atomic world instead.'

When we think of the periodic table, we often envision orderly rows of elements that conform to type and never break the rules. However, this book unveils the personalities, passions, quirks, and historical oddities behind those ordered rows. It reveals the periodic table as a sprawling family tree complete with its own black sheep, wayward cousins, and odd uncles. The elements, like us, form an extended family - some old, some newborn, some shy and reticent, some exuberant or unreliable.

Dr. Harkup tells the weird and wonderful stories of just fifty-two members of this family. These are remarkable tales of discovery, inspiration, and revolution, ranging from the everyday to the extraordinary. Some elements remain relatively anonymous, while others, already familiar, are seen in a new light, and old friends have surprising secrets to share. From our green-fingered friend magnesium to the devil incarnate polonium, this eclectic collection of engaging and informative stories will change the way you see the periodic table forever.