From Coello to Inorganic Chemistry - A Lifetime of Reactions

In this review of From Coello to Inorganic Chemistry, the reviewer finds a memoir that will most appeal to chemists, graduate students, and historians of science interested in the personal and professional development of twentieth century inorganic chemistry. The book's single biggest reason to buy is its combination of firsthand narrative and technical context: Fred Basolo traces his life from a coal-mining village to leadership in the chemical community while documenting the emergence of modern inorganic chemistry with photographs, structures, and equations.

Key Features

• Autobiographical narrative: The memoir connects Basolo's personal life and career so readers can follow how upbringing, family, and travel shaped his scientific path.
• Historical perspective: The book details the development of inorganic chemistry through Basolo's experiences, making it useful for readers studying the field's evolution.
• Illustrations and diagrams: Over a hundred photographs and numerous molecular structures and equations enrich the text and clarify technical points.
• Professional milestones: Basolo recounts notable achievements such as serving as president of the American Chemical Society and receiving major honors, offering context on scientific leadership.
• Departmental history: The account of building Northwestern University's inorganic chemistry department provides insight into academic culture and institutional growth.

Who It's For

The book is well suited to practicing chemists, advanced students, and researchers interested in bioinorganic chemistry, catalysis, organometallics, nanoscience, and new materials, because Basolo ties individual discoveries to broader trends in these subfields. It is also valuable to readers who appreciate memoirs that document scientific institutions and mentorship.

Readers seeking a textbook-style introduction to inorganic chemistry or a purely technical reference should look elsewhere; this is a reflective, narrative account that mixes personal history with technical highlights rather than providing systematic pedagogy.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Firsthand account from a leading figure offers authentic historical perspective on the growth of inorganic chemistry.
• Numerous photographs and structural diagrams make the narrative visually informative and engaging.
• Details about departmental development and professional service give useful context for academic careers.

Cons

• The memoir format means it is not a structured textbook, so it may not satisfy readers looking for systematic instruction.

Specifications

Title	From Coello to Inorganic Chemistry: A Lifetime of Reactions
Author	Fred Basolo
Focus	Autobiography and history of inorganic chemistry
Illustrations	Over 100 photographs plus structures and equations
Academic context	Accounts of Northwestern University inorganic chemistry department
Notable topics	Bioinorganic chemistry, catalysis, organometallics, materials

Our Verdict

From Coello to Inorganic Chemistry is a rewarding read for chemists and historians who want a personal window into the development of modern inorganic chemistry; its combination of memoir, photographs, and technical discussion makes it good value for readers seeking historical insight and career perspective rather than a classroom text.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the book include technical diagrams?
Yes. The memoir contains dozens of molecular structures and equations alongside more than a hundred photographs to illustrate the scientific narrative.

Is this suitable for undergraduate students?
Undergraduates with interest in the history of chemistry or career development will find value, but those needing a foundational textbook should choose a dedicated inorganic chemistry text.

Does the author discuss his role in professional societies?
Yes. Basolo recounts his leadership, including serving as president of the American Chemical Society and receiving major professional recognition.