GALEN'S LECTURES: A Novel about Chemistry

"It is challenging to combine a novel with ´lectures´ and Albert does so ingeniously in GALEN´S LECTURES. It is certainly very readable."

-- Oliver Sacks, M.D., Author of Awakenings, The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat and Uncle Tungsten.


"The chemistry within the lectures is beautifully done. The chemistry outside of the lectures is excellent. The lectures and the remainder of the narrative are in a symbiotic relationship. Galen is a well worked through and believable character.

-- Dr. Roald Hoffmann, Frank H. T. Rhodes Professor of Humane Letters at Cornell University and 1981 Nobel Laureate.


"A compelling story. I really enjoyed it very much."

-- Jeffrey Robbins, Editor, Perseus Books.


Please read the review by Harry E. Pence in Foundations of Chemistry vol. 7, page 321, (2005).



Chemist Mason Galen has returned to the chemistry department of his Alma Mater to rebuild his shattered life. But as he begins to find solace in his chemistry lectures, and old and new friends, his refuge begins to collapse. A popular and inspiring chemistry professor vanishes, another falls victim to suicide while Galen´s most trusted mentor begins an astonishing physical decline. And of course there is Grenger. What will Galen make of Alto Grenger, a new administrator. Will Galen assemble and solve the pieces of this workplace mystery in time, or will he be forced to choose between his passion for science and self-preservation?

GALEN'S LECTURES is intended for the college student, anyone who encounters chemistry in their jobs or hobbies, readers with a casual interest in science and anyone who loves a good mystery.

GALEN'S LECTURES introduces many of the broad subjects described in a general chemistry class but within the emothional context of a novel's storyline. These include the structure of the atom, electron configurations, the octet rule and the basics of covalent and ionic bonding. Also included is orbital hybridization and orbital mixing. Chemical reactivity, the role of energy in chemical reactions and their activation is discussed in GALEN'S LECTURES as well as reaction equilibria and Le Chatelier's principle. Acids and bases and concepts concerning oxidation-reduction reactions are also covered.

For more information about GALEN'S LECTURES go to: http://www.xlibris.com/galenslectures.html