93 pages 3 hours read

Sam Kean

The Disappearing Spoon: And Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2010

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Disappearing Spoon by Sam Kean, a New York Times bestseller, explores the fascinating history of the atomic elements, detailing their unique properties and the dramatic stories of scientists who discovered them. From the origins of the periodic table to the darker facets of scientific discovery, Kean illuminates the elements' roles in shaping the world and the universe. The book includes accounts of radioactive exposure, chemical warfare, and scientific oversight that caused harm or death.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Sam Kean's The Disappearing Spoon captivates with its engaging exploration of the periodic table, blending science with human stories. Readers appreciate Kean's accessible, witty prose and intriguing anecdotes. However, some find the narrative occasionally disjointed and overly detailed for casual reading. Overall, an enriching read for science enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Disappearing Spoon?

Readers who enjoy popular science narratives with a blend of history and humor, much like Bill Bryson's A Short History of Nearly Everything or Mary Roach's Stiff, will be captivated by Sam Kean's The Disappearing Spoon. This book is perfect for those who relish quirky anecdotes and insightful tales tied to the periodic table's elements.

Recommended

Reading Age

14+years

Lexile Level

1300L

Book Details

Topics

Science / Nature

History: World