BOOK BRIEF

The Periodic Table

Primo Levi
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The Periodic Table

Nonfiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1995

Book Brief

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Primo Levi

The Periodic Table

Nonfiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1995
Book Details
Pages

233

Format

Short Story • Nonfiction

Setting

Italy • 20th century

Publication Year

1995

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Periodic Table by Primo Levi is an autobiographical collection of stories that blend Levi's experiences as a Jewish-Italian chemist with elements of history and science. Each story, named after a chemical element, explores themes of connection and resilience, illustrating how the scientific and human worlds intersect in the author's life.

Contemplative

Melancholic

Informative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

20,112 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

The Periodic Table by Primo Levi is praised for its unique blend of memoir, science, and philosophy, offering profound insights into human nature and resilience. Reviewers commend Levi's eloquent and reflective narrative. Critics, however, note that its structure may feel disjointed to some readers. Overall, the book is regarded as a thoughtful and compelling read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Periodic Table?

A reader who enjoys The Periodic Table by Primo Levi is likely drawn to memoirs intertwining science with personal history. Fans of Oliver Sacks or Richard Feynman's Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman! will appreciate Levi’s blend of chemistry and narrative, exploring themes of identity, resilience, and the human condition.

4.3

20,112 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

233

Format

Short Story • Nonfiction

Setting

Italy • 20th century

Publication Year

1995

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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