By Francesc Borrull · September 30, 2024

I just finished reading It’s Elemental. The Hidden Chemistry in Everything by Kate Biberdorf, and I can’t tell you how much I loved it! As someone who’s always had a keen interest in chemistry but little to no formal education in it, this book felt like a breath of fresh air.

Let me take you back a bit. When I was in high school, I had a class that combined Physics and Chemistry. I earned a D, which is not exactly something I’m proud of. I struggled with both subjects, but chemistry was particularly tough for me. My teacher wasn’t engaging, and to be honest, we didn’t even have a lab to experiment in. How can anyone truly learn chemistry without hands-on experience? Despite my poor performance, I always found myself intrigued by how chemistry intertwines with our everyday lives, especially in areas like biochemistry, nutrition, and exercise.

That’s what made Kate Biberdorf’s book such a revelation for me! The way she presents chemistry is not only accessible but incredibly relatable. The first part introduces basic concepts like atoms and chemical reactions, laying a solid foundation. But it’s in Part II—“Chemistry Here, There, and Everywhere”—where the magic really happens.

Chapter 5 focuses on breakfast, breaking down the chemistry involved in cooking. I found myself nodding along, connecting what I learned to my morning routine. Chapter 6 struck a chord with me too; as an active runner, I’ve always been curious about the chemical reactions happening in my body while I exercise. It was enlightening to see those processes explained in such an engaging way.

Then there’s Chapter 7, all about grooming products—from shampoos to face creams. I never thought about the chemistry behind these everyday items, but Biberdorf makes it so easy to understand. And Chapter 9 dives into the kitchen, unpacking the science of cooking, which had me excited to experiment more in my own culinary endeavors.

But perhaps the biggest surprise was Chapter 10, where she talks about cleaning the house! I didn’t expect to enjoy reading about cleaning supplies, but she illustrates how they work with such clarity that it felt empowering. It’s amazing how much chemistry is at play in our daily lives, often going unnoticed.

In conclusion, I wish this book had been my introduction to chemistry back in high school. It’s fascinating and incredibly rewarding to finally grasp the chemistry that influences my daily routines. If you’ve ever felt lost or intimidated by chemistry—or even if you’ve just been curious about its role in your life—this book is a must-read.

I highly recommend It’s Elemental to everyone! Whether you’re a seasoned chemistry enthusiast or someone like me who’s just starting to explore, you’ll find something to love in this engaging and insightful book. So grab a copy, dive in, and discover the hidden chemistry in everything around you!

© Francesc Borrull, 2024