Linus Pauling and the Chemistry of Life

Grade 7 Up-This well-written biography of the winner of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry is truly a portrait of a "scientific giant." Pauling's research achievements in chemistry, physics, biology, and medicine are clearly discussed in relation to his life. One-to-two page sidebars offer additional information about the nature of the chemical bond, the molecular structure of proteins, Vitamin C, and other topics that engaged his interest. Pauling's use of his recognition as a scientist to advance political causes and the problems that this activism caused him (FBI and other governmental investigations, attacks by the press, cancellation of research grants, etc.) is given equally fine coverage. Black-and-white photographs of the scientist and reproductions of handwritten pages from his notes and speeches illustrate the text. The extensive list of further reading by and about the Nobel Prize winner and his political and scientific interests will be useful to students stimulated by this engaging title.