The first half of this book explains how atoms and elements were discovered and how the periodic table was developed, with biographies of important contributors illustrated by photos and diagrams. Part two, "The Lore of the Elements," gives for each element its abbreviation, discoverer, origin of name, and several paragraphs of information, with black-and-white illustrations. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

Gr 7 Up-This book opens with an explanation of Democritus's concept of the atom (465 B.C.). Next, three full-color photo-essays cover the scientists connected to the study of the elements throughout history and the "Anatomy of an Atom," radiation, and the elements found in the human body and around the home. The latter half of the volume is devoted to the individual elements from hydrogen to ununquadium, in order of their atomic number. For each, the individuals associated with its discovery, the date of discovery, the origin of the name, atomic weight, melting point, and a photograph, when applicable, are provided. A few paragraphs describing the elements' uses are also included. Captioned black-and-white and color photographs and illustrations break up the text, and boxed areas highlight specific topics or individuals, such as Marie and Pierre Curie. The future of the periodic table and the quest to discover new elements are mentioned throughout. A useful overview.-Maren Ostergard, Bellevue Regional Library, WA Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.