Coal and What We Get from It   By: Raphael Meldola

Coal and What We Get from It by Raphael Meldola is a comprehensive and enlightening resource that delves into the fascinating world of coal mining and its associated industries. Meldola, a renowned chemist and entomologist, brings his scientific background to this book, providing readers with a meticulous examination of coal's formation, properties, and incredibly diverse uses.

One of the book's strongest points is Meldola's ability to make complex concepts accessible to a wide range of readers. The language is clear and concise, free from excessive scientific jargon, ensuring that even those with little background knowledge can grasp the subject matter. Additionally, Meldola's writing style is engaging, making for an enjoyable reading experience throughout.

From the very beginning of the book, Meldola delves into the historical significance of coal and its critical role in powering the Industrial Revolution. He skillfully navigates through time, providing readers with a vivid account of how coal transformed the economy, transportation, and even ignited revolutions in various parts of the world. The book's historical context not only enriches the narrative but also gives readers a deeper appreciation for the importance of coal in shaping our modern world.

Moreover, Meldola meticulously explores the science behind coal, offering detailed explanations of its composition and the various processes involved in extracting, refining, and utilizing it. The author effortlessly combines chemistry, geology, and engineering principles to give readers a holistic understanding of the subject matter. By including diagrams, illustrations, and real-life examples, Meldola further enhances the clarity and comprehensiveness of his explanations.

While the book extensively covers the technical aspects of coal, Meldola also delves into the environmental and societal effects of its extraction and consumption. He addresses concerns such as air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and the negative impact on workers' health and safety. This balanced approach adds a layer of depth to the book, as it encourages readers to consider both the benefits and the drawbacks of coal as an energy source.

My only minor criticism of this otherwise outstanding book is the occasional repetition of certain concepts. While it is essential to reinforce key points, some sections could have been condensed to avoid redundancy. However, this is a minor issue and does not detract significantly from the overall quality of the book.

In conclusion, Coal and What We Get from It by Raphael Meldola is an exceptional work that seamlessly weaves together history, science, and societal perspectives to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of coal and its significance. Meldola's accessible writing style and engaging narrative make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the history, science, and impact of this crucial natural resource.

First Page:

This is neither a technical manual, nor a treatise dealing with the history of a particular branch of applied science, but it partakes somewhat of the character of both. It is an attempt perhaps somewhat bold to present in a popular form an account of the great industry which has arisen out of the waste from the gas works. In the strictest sense it is a romance of dirt. To render intelligible the various stages in the evolution of the industry, without assuming any knowledge of chemical science on the part of the general reader, has by no means been an easy task, and I have great misgivings as to the success of my effort... Continue reading book >>