Picked this up from BookCloseouts.com to add to my "Books about Things" bookbox. Only problem is I want to read this one first. Oh well, small book, only 204 pp.

From the cover -
Mauve tells the story of William Perkin, a man whose father didn't want him to become a chemist, and whose chemistry professor didn't want him to wreck his career in pursuit of a colour. By the age of eighteen, however, Perkin had made a discovery that would make him the richest chemist in Britain... and would change the world.

I enjoyed this book very much. I haven't studied any chemistry for over 30 years, and then it was only part of a general science class. I'm thinking that someone who had a decent chemistry background might get a bit more out of this book than I did. However, not having chemistry knowledge is not a great hindrance in reading this book. I just thought that might add a little more background knowledge.

This book is developed around the discovery of a young 18-year-old man, who is conducting experiments on coal tar trying to find a substitute for natural quinine. Although unsuccessful in that endeavor, he is a creative thinker with an artistic bent, and discovers a method to separate dyestuffs. His methodology has a significant impact on industrial chemistry, and has repercussions throughout industry for years into the future. His early work affects chemists from around the globe, and affects life into the new century.

This book is very accessible, and easily understood. I enjoyed the way the historical discoveries were tied into our current times, and we learned how the science of color has affected our lives. Lots of info to think about here.

RELEASE NOTES:

Putting into my "Books about Things" bookbox.

Taken from the books about things book box. I'm a sucker for nonfiction...no matter what it's about!! :)

I just can't seem to get into this one. I am listing it in the bio/memoirs virtual bookbox.

RELEASE NOTES:

sent to rootmartin who requested it. :)

Thanks so much, elizardbreath! It arrived safe and sound out here. I'm looking forward to reading this book.