JOHN JONES

This new primer offers a thorough understanding of the carbonyl group, knowledge essential for an understanding of organic chemistry. The Carbonyl groups appears in many classes of compounds, Core Carbonyl Chemistry covers the chemistry of these classes in a brisk style, and also embraces the reactivity of this group. Recent developments are dealt with where appropriate. The study of this material is a vital part of all university year and/or second year courses in chemistry or biochemistry, and this Primer will be useful to all students taking such courses. `Core Carbonyl Chemistry is recommendable particularly to first year degree students as the subject matter as presented is a microcosm of organic chemistry, describing reactions, their mechanisms and conditions and their synthetic relevance. Warmly recommended, especially as a supplement to a brief lecture course.' Aslib Book Guide, vol. 63, no. 3, March 1998