The director of McGill University's Office of Science and Society here brings his passion and immense knowledge to persuade readers that the pursuit of science is a source of wonder, enlightenment and well-being for everyone. He sets out to rescue chemistry from the bad rep it's developed in recent decades - there's more to it than toxins, pollution and E-numbers. Readers will learn whether beauty pills are worth taking, if baby shampoo is poisonous and discover (but not use!) the recipe for a Molotov cocktail.