Organic Model Kit, 27 Oct 2004
This is a really useful product. These ARE the molymods(TM) that schools accross the UK use. The contents is quite sufficient for making a lot of organic models, other kits may offer a better range of odd atoms ie metals etc(see Philip Harris).

---Philip Harris is an eductaional supplier, but does supply on an individual basis---

The space filling model parts (little connectors) arent needed by myself. The kit is great to show the difference between boat/chair cyclohexane, and other such possible structural complexities. The separation tool is quite useful to save a lot of effort, cos the bonds are very strong on the first use.

An all round great kit for A-level/University Organic students. I would recomend this kit, escpecialy at the price of £18.89 I paid.

(-Amazon.co.uk, great fast service, even by cheque-)

Organic Model Kit, 27 Oct 2004
This is a really useful product. These ARE the molymods(TM) that schools accross the UK use. The contents is quite sufficient for making a lot of organic models, other kits may offer a better range of odd atoms ie metals etc(see Philip Harris).

---Philip Harris is an eductaional supplier, but does supply on an individual basis---

The space filling model parts (little connectors) arent needed by myself. The kit is great to show the difference between boat/chair cyclohexane, and other such possible structural complexities. The separation tool is quite useful to save a lot of effort, cos the bonds are very strong on the first use.

An all round great kit for A-level/University Organic students. I would recomend this kit, escpecialy at the price of £18.89 I paid.

(-Amazon.co.uk, great fast service, even by cheque-)

Not a reference book, much more important than that, 20 Jun 2007
An excellent book, the text puts many important ideas into context and explains many of the underlying patterns that govern organic reaction mechanisms. Other reviews suggest that it is hard to look things up in it; so it is! You need to read this gradually from cover to cover, and I guarantee you will be much more apprecative about organic chemistry at the end. It will show you and explain patterns in behaviour that no other book does. A classic. My only compalint is that it now looks old, in layout and diagrams. Somebody needs to produce a new edition with some updated graphics..any offers anyone?

NOT a list of reactions but USEFUL for your WHOLE degree!!!, 12 Jul 2004
This is considered a classic. I know some chemists who can recite this book. They swear by it. This book is not a textbook that will teach you lots of organic reactions but it's very good for telling you about organic reaction mechanims. Since it gives examples (although simple ones) to demonstrate ideas, you pick up more than you've bargained for. It's good as a reference text and excellent for things like the primary kinetic isotope effect and all the Hammet equation stuff you're bound to have to learn at some point during your degree. Also it has the advantage of not being too huge and colossal like some text books I know. All in all it's VERY worth getting if you're doing a chemistry degree (and beyond) but the price seems unfair. I'd get it used if I was getting it again. Thinking about it, I think getting textbooks used is a good idea all round. But as far as this book is concerned, it's all top notch stuff.

Worth the money, get it 2nd hand if you can, 06 Jul 2004
Undergraduate text books in chemistry are expensive. Get them 2nd hand if you can.

Sykes' book is a classic in the organic chemisty world and is a sound investement for the chemistry undergraduate. It's not an encyclopedia of all organic reactions, but it will do for all the basics, mechanisms, solid discussion, and will come in handy for learning all that physical organic chemistry you're bound to encounter.

It's also quite small and convenient to pick up, unlike those bulky American textbooks! In fact I think it's an American legal requirement for their textbooks to weigh more than a standard issue anvil. Probably why they all need SUVs with 18L engines.

Anyway, if you're going to do a chemistry degree in the UK, get Sykes' book and Clayden, Greeves, Warren & Wothers' "Organic Chemistry" (consider getting the problems and answers book for that too, if you can afford it all).

the organic chemistry bible, 15 Nov 2003
as a chemistry undergraduate in the eighties this book opened up my mind to the wonders and beauty of organic chemistry. it is compact and therefore can be read quickly but its strength lies in the author's ability to convey what at first seem complex concepts into simple yet fantastic answers. I would recommend this book to any undergraduate student of chemistry. It is a titanic of a book. Andy Evans BSc MBChB FRCA

Very well layed out, easy to follow mechanism & explanations, 27 Sep 2001
This book is well ordered and references within itself and to other books for added support. It is very good as a lecture support as all the mechanisms have there names and are explained well with examples.

Organic Model Kit, 27 Oct 2004
This is a really useful product. These ARE the molymods(TM) that schools accross the UK use. The contents is quite sufficient for making a lot of organic models, other kits may offer a better range of odd atoms ie metals etc(see Philip Harris).

---Philip Harris is an eductaional supplier, but does supply on an individual basis---

The space filling model parts (little connectors) arent needed by myself. The kit is great to show the difference between boat/chair cyclohexane, and other such possible structural complexities. The separation tool is quite useful to save a lot of effort, cos the bonds are very strong on the first use.

An all round great kit for A-level/University Organic students. I would recomend this kit, escpecialy at the price of £18.89 I paid.

(-Amazon.co.uk, great fast service, even by cheque-)

Not a reference book, much more important than that, 20 Jun 2007
An excellent book, the text puts many important ideas into context and explains many of the underlying patterns that govern organic reaction mechanisms. Other reviews suggest that it is hard to look things up in it; so it is! You need to read this gradually from cover to cover, and I guarantee you will be much more apprecative about organic chemistry at the end. It will show you and explain patterns in behaviour that no other book does. A classic. My only compalint is that it now looks old, in layout and diagrams. Somebody needs to produce a new edition with some updated graphics..any offers anyone?

NOT a list of reactions but USEFUL for your WHOLE degree!!!, 12 Jul 2004
This is considered a classic. I know some chemists who can recite this book. They swear by it. This book is not a textbook that will teach you lots of organic reactions but it's very good for telling you about organic reaction mechanims. Since it gives examples (although simple ones) to demonstrate ideas, you pick up more than you've bargained for. It's good as a reference text and excellent for things like the primary kinetic isotope effect and all the Hammet equation stuff you're bound to have to learn at some point during your degree. Also it has the advantage of not being too huge and colossal like some text books I know. All in all it's VERY worth getting if you're doing a chemistry degree (and beyond) but the price seems unfair. I'd get it used if I was getting it again. Thinking about it, I think getting textbooks used is a good idea all round. But as far as this book is concerned, it's all top notch stuff.

Worth the money, get it 2nd hand if you can, 06 Jul 2004
Undergraduate text books in chemistry are expensive. Get them 2nd hand if you can.

Sykes' book is a classic in the organic chemisty world and is a sound investement for the chemistry undergraduate. It's not an encyclopedia of all organic reactions, but it will do for all the basics, mechanisms, solid discussion, and will come in handy for learning all that physical organic chemistry you're bound to encounter.

It's also quite small and convenient to pick up, unlike those bulky American textbooks! In fact I think it's an American legal requirement for their textbooks to weigh more than a standard issue anvil. Probably why they all need SUVs with 18L engines.

Anyway, if you're going to do a chemistry degree in the UK, get Sykes' book and Clayden, Greeves, Warren & Wothers' "Organic Chemistry" (consider getting the problems and answers book for that too, if you can afford it all).

the organic chemistry bible, 15 Nov 2003
as a chemistry undergraduate in the eighties this book opened up my mind to the wonders and beauty of organic chemistry. it is compact and therefore can be read quickly but its strength lies in the author's ability to convey what at first seem complex concepts into simple yet fantastic answers. I would recommend this book to any undergraduate student of chemistry. It is a titanic of a book. Andy Evans BSc MBChB FRCA

Very well layed out, easy to follow mechanism & explanations, 27 Sep 2001
This book is well ordered and references within itself and to other books for added support. It is very good as a lecture support as all the mechanisms have there names and are explained well with examples.

Good, but with some amaercanisms, 30 Sep 2008
This book was good as a text book, but ocasionaly the American nomeculture and unit system can be annoying. I'd recomend more on molecular orbital theory (particularly in the reaction mecanisms) and atcualy using IUPAC names.

The arrangement of the text (by reaction not functional group) and the use of concepts instead of memorided facts is a step in the right direction, and the electrostatic potental maps add a colourful (some might say unnessceary) visulisation witch is most useful in the nucleophilic adition/elimination section. The design a reaction sections and synthesis question make you think about the subject in the most applicable way - as a method of producing a target molecule.

I didn't use this book as part of a course (still stuck with A-levels), so I can't comment on its usefulness, I did like it though.

Overall, good, but next edition, please stick to IUPAC guidlines and spell 'color' with a 'u'.

excellent book, thoroughly recommend, 20 Aug 2007
After picking my modules for Uni I realised I needed a good undergraduate text for organic chemistry, it's a swamp of information to learn and cope with. This text is well organised and makes learning more relaxed and enjoyable. At no point did I feel stressed at all about any of the sections. With a handy online companion and more than enough example and test questions the entire subject of organic chemistry links together. It had just enough history to keep those interested satisfied and continues to reinforce on previous ideas as it progresses through the subject matter. Not only does it take you through step by step all you need to know it does this in an original order splitting synthesis and reativity into seperate sections. All in all well worth the money - a much needed undergraduate (and beyond) textbook.

Not bad, 22 Apr 2001
Good as an introduction to the field of organic chemistry although more examples would be helpful. Probably one of the better organic chemistry textbooks around. Overall quite decent.

Excellent, for limited courses, 30 Nov 2000
This book is very useful for the basic functional groups, and makes an excellent first-year text. It is a friendly introduction to the nightmare that organic chemistry can be otherwise. It is clearly presented (unlike some of the slightly more comprehensive texts e.g Marsh) and explains things simply. Anyone wishing to get longer-term use from a book should probably look elsewhere.

An excellent text, 26 Nov 2000
As a chemistry undergraduate, I found this book very useful and extremely easy to read. It is well presented and interesting, with many practical examples. A very worthwhile buy for a first year!

Organic Model Kit, 27 Oct 2004
This is a really useful product. These ARE the molymods(TM) that schools accross the UK use. The contents is quite sufficient for making a lot of organic models, other kits may offer a better range of odd atoms ie metals etc(see Philip Harris).

---Philip Harris is an eductaional supplier, but does supply on an individual basis---

The space filling model parts (little connectors) arent needed by myself. The kit is great to show the difference between boat/chair cyclohexane, and other such possible structural complexities. The separation tool is quite useful to save a lot of effort, cos the bonds are very strong on the first use.

An all round great kit for A-level/University Organic students. I would recomend this kit, escpecialy at the price of £18.89 I paid.

(-Amazon.co.uk, great fast service, even by cheque-)

Not a reference book, much more important than that, 20 Jun 2007
An excellent book, the text puts many important ideas into context and explains many of the underlying patterns that govern organic reaction mechanisms. Other reviews suggest that it is hard to look things up in it; so it is! You need to read this gradually from cover to cover, and I guarantee you will be much more apprecative about organic chemistry at the end. It will show you and explain patterns in behaviour that no other book does. A classic. My only compalint is that it now looks old, in layout and diagrams. Somebody needs to produce a new edition with some updated graphics..any offers anyone?

NOT a list of reactions but USEFUL for your WHOLE degree!!!, 12 Jul 2004
This is considered a classic. I know some chemists who can recite this book. They swear by it. This book is not a textbook that will teach you lots of organic reactions but it's very good for telling you about organic reaction mechanims. Since it gives examples (although simple ones) to demonstrate ideas, you pick up more than you've bargained for. It's good as a reference text and excellent for things like the primary kinetic isotope effect and all the Hammet equation stuff you're bound to have to learn at some point during your degree. Also it has the advantage of not being too huge and colossal like some text books I know. All in all it's VERY worth getting if you're doing a chemistry degree (and beyond) but the price seems unfair. I'd get it used if I was getting it again. Thinking about it, I think getting textbooks used is a good idea all round. But as far as this book is concerned, it's all top notch stuff.

Worth the money, get it 2nd hand if you can, 06 Jul 2004
Undergraduate text books in chemistry are expensive. Get them 2nd hand if you can.

Sykes' book is a classic in the organic chemisty world and is a sound investement for the chemistry undergraduate. It's not an encyclopedia of all organic reactions, but it will do for all the basics, mechanisms, solid discussion, and will come in handy for learning all that physical organic chemistry you're bound to encounter.

It's also quite small and convenient to pick up, unlike those bulky American textbooks! In fact I think it's an American legal requirement for their textbooks to weigh more than a standard issue anvil. Probably why they all need SUVs with 18L engines.

Anyway, if you're going to do a chemistry degree in the UK, get Sykes' book and Clayden, Greeves, Warren & Wothers' "Organic Chemistry" (consider getting the problems and answers book for that too, if you can afford it all).

the organic chemistry bible, 15 Nov 2003
as a chemistry undergraduate in the eighties this book opened up my mind to the wonders and beauty of organic chemistry. it is compact and therefore can be read quickly but its strength lies in the author's ability to convey what at first seem complex concepts into simple yet fantastic answers. I would recommend this book to any undergraduate student of chemistry. It is a titanic of a book. Andy Evans BSc MBChB FRCA

Very well layed out, easy to follow mechanism & explanations, 27 Sep 2001
This book is well ordered and references within itself and to other books for added support. It is very good as a lecture support as all the mechanisms have there names and are explained well with examples.

Good, but with some amaercanisms, 30 Sep 2008
This book was good as a text book, but ocasionaly the American nomeculture and unit system can be annoying. I'd recomend more on molecular orbital theory (particularly in the reaction mecanisms) and atcualy using IUPAC names.

The arrangement of the text (by reaction not functional group) and the use of concepts instead of memorided facts is a step in the right direction, and the electrostatic potental maps add a colourful (some might say unnessceary) visulisation witch is most useful in the nucleophilic adition/elimination section. The design a reaction sections and synthesis question make you think about the subject in the most applicable way - as a method of producing a target molecule.

I didn't use this book as part of a course (still stuck with A-levels), so I can't comment on its usefulness, I did like it though.

Overall, good, but next edition, please stick to IUPAC guidlines and spell 'color' with a 'u'.

excellent book, thoroughly recommend, 20 Aug 2007
After picking my modules for Uni I realised I needed a good undergraduate text for organic chemistry, it's a swamp of information to learn and cope with. This text is well organised and makes learning more relaxed and enjoyable. At no point did I feel stressed at all about any of the sections. With a handy online companion and more than enough example and test questions the entire subject of organic chemistry links together. It had just enough history to keep those interested satisfied and continues to reinforce on previous ideas as it progresses through the subject matter. Not only does it take you through step by step all you need to know it does this in an original order splitting synthesis and reativity into seperate sections. All in all well worth the money - a much needed undergraduate (and beyond) textbook.

Not bad, 22 Apr 2001
Good as an introduction to the field of organic chemistry although more examples would be helpful. Probably one of the better organic chemistry textbooks around. Overall quite decent.

Excellent, for limited courses, 30 Nov 2000
This book is very useful for the basic functional groups, and makes an excellent first-year text. It is a friendly introduction to the nightmare that organic chemistry can be otherwise. It is clearly presented (unlike some of the slightly more comprehensive texts e.g Marsh) and explains things simply. Anyone wishing to get longer-term use from a book should probably look elsewhere.

An excellent text, 26 Nov 2000
As a chemistry undergraduate, I found this book very useful and extremely easy to read. It is well presented and interesting, with many practical examples. A very worthwhile buy for a first year!

the lab based chemists life saver, 02 Oct 2001
Don't be put off by the size and weight of this book. It is very easy to use book covering most aspects of practical day to day chemistry.
It contains sections on how to conduct and write up experiments, actual "recipes" for many common types of reactions, it also has more general information on how to work up, isolate and identify the products of reactions. It tries to address safety, which is becoming an increasingly appreciated topic.
A copy of this should be available for the perusal of every undergraduate and first or second year graduate students

Organic Model Kit, 27 Oct 2004
This is a really useful product. These ARE the molymods(TM) that schools accross the UK use. The contents is quite sufficient for making a lot of organic models, other kits may offer a better range of odd atoms ie metals etc(see Philip Harris).

---Philip Harris is an eductaional supplier, but does supply on an individual basis---

The space filling model parts (little connectors) arent needed by myself. The kit is great to show the difference between boat/chair cyclohexane, and other such possible structural complexities. The separation tool is quite useful to save a lot of effort, cos the bonds are very strong on the first use.

An all round great kit for A-level/University Organic students. I would recomend this kit, escpecialy at the price of £18.89 I paid.

(-Amazon.co.uk, great fast service, even by cheque-)

Not a reference book, much more important than that, 20 Jun 2007
An excellent book, the text puts many important ideas into context and explains many of the underlying patterns that govern organic reaction mechanisms. Other reviews suggest that it is hard to look things up in it; so it is! You need to read this gradually from cover to cover, and I guarantee you will be much more apprecative about organic chemistry at the end. It will show you and explain patterns in behaviour that no other book does. A classic. My only compalint is that it now looks old, in layout and diagrams. Somebody needs to produce a new edition with some updated graphics..any offers anyone?

NOT a list of reactions but USEFUL for your WHOLE degree!!!, 12 Jul 2004
This is considered a classic. I know some chemists who can recite this book. They swear by it. This book is not a textbook that will teach you lots of organic reactions but it's very good for telling you about organic reaction mechanims. Since it gives examples (although simple ones) to demonstrate ideas, you pick up more than you've bargained for. It's good as a reference text and excellent for things like the primary kinetic isotope effect and all the Hammet equation stuff you're bound to have to learn at some point during your degree. Also it has the advantage of not being too huge and colossal like some text books I know. All in all it's VERY worth getting if you're doing a chemistry degree (and beyond) but the price seems unfair. I'd get it used if I was getting it again. Thinking about it, I think getting textbooks used is a good idea all round. But as far as this book is concerned, it's all top notch stuff.

Worth the money, get it 2nd hand if you can, 06 Jul 2004
Undergraduate text books in chemistry are expensive. Get them 2nd hand if you can.

Sykes' book is a classic in the organic chemisty world and is a sound investement for the chemistry undergraduate. It's not an encyclopedia of all organic reactions, but it will do for all the basics, mechanisms, solid discussion, and will come in handy for learning all that physical organic chemistry you're bound to encounter.

It's also quite small and convenient to pick up, unlike those bulky American textbooks! In fact I think it's an American legal requirement for their textbooks to weigh more than a standard issue anvil. Probably why they all need SUVs with 18L engines.

Anyway, if you're going to do a chemistry degree in the UK, get Sykes' book and Clayden, Greeves, Warren & Wothers' "Organic Chemistry" (consider getting the problems and answers book for that too, if you can afford it all).

the organic chemistry bible, 15 Nov 2003
as a chemistry undergraduate in the eighties this book opened up my mind to the wonders and beauty of organic chemistry. it is compact and therefore can be read quickly but its strength lies in the author's ability to convey what at first seem complex concepts into simple yet fantastic answers. I would recommend this book to any undergraduate student of chemistry. It is a titanic of a book. Andy Evans BSc MBChB FRCA

Very well layed out, easy to follow mechanism & explanations, 27 Sep 2001
This book is well ordered and references within itself and to other books for added support. It is very good as a lecture support as all the mechanisms have there names and are explained well with examples.

Good, but with some amaercanisms, 30 Sep 2008
This book was good as a text book, but ocasionaly the American nomeculture and unit system can be annoying. I'd recomend more on molecular orbital theory (particularly in the reaction mecanisms) and atcualy using IUPAC names.

The arrangement of the text (by reaction not functional group) and the use of concepts instead of memorided facts is a step in the right direction, and the electrostatic potental maps add a colourful (some might say unnessceary) visulisation witch is most useful in the nucleophilic adition/elimination section. The design a reaction sections and synthesis question make you think about the subject in the most applicable way - as a method of producing a target molecule.

I didn't use this book as part of a course (still stuck with A-levels), so I can't comment on its usefulness, I did like it though.

Overall, good, but next edition, please stick to IUPAC guidlines and spell 'color' with a 'u'.

excellent book, thoroughly recommend, 20 Aug 2007
After picking my modules for Uni I realised I needed a good undergraduate text for organic chemistry, it's a swamp of information to learn and cope with. This text is well organised and makes learning more relaxed and enjoyable. At no point did I feel stressed at all about any of the sections. With a handy online companion and more than enough example and test questions the entire subject of organic chemistry links together. It had just enough history to keep those interested satisfied and continues to reinforce on previous ideas as it progresses through the subject matter. Not only does it take you through step by step all you need to know it does this in an original order splitting synthesis and reativity into seperate sections. All in all well worth the money - a much needed undergraduate (and beyond) textbook.

Not bad, 22 Apr 2001
Good as an introduction to the field of organic chemistry although more examples would be helpful. Probably one of the better organic chemistry textbooks around. Overall quite decent.

Excellent, for limited courses, 30 Nov 2000
This book is very useful for the basic functional groups, and makes an excellent first-year text. It is a friendly introduction to the nightmare that organic chemistry can be otherwise. It is clearly presented (unlike some of the slightly more comprehensive texts e.g Marsh) and explains things simply. Anyone wishing to get longer-term use from a book should probably look elsewhere.

An excellent text, 26 Nov 2000
As a chemistry undergraduate, I found this book very useful and extremely easy to read. It is well presented and interesting, with many practical examples. A very worthwhile buy for a first year!

the lab based chemists life saver, 02 Oct 2001
Don't be put off by the size and weight of this book. It is very easy to use book covering most aspects of practical day to day chemistry.
It contains sections on how to conduct and write up experiments, actual "recipes" for many common types of reactions, it also has more general information on how to work up, isolate and identify the products of reactions. It tries to address safety, which is becoming an increasingly appreciated topic.
A copy of this should be available for the perusal of every undergraduate and first or second year graduate students

wonderful introduction to organic chemistry, 27 Dec 2006
This book is a wonderful guide and has phenomenal explanatory power. I was grade eight when I first picked up this book and I am pretty confident that I understood every topic presented therein. The authors are very meticulous about dividing a big topic into several smaller ones for readers' ease of comprehension. Not only is this a good guide for one who has no basics in organic chemistry, it is also probably a good reference on the bookshelves of practicing organic chemists or curious people. All this praise, however, hinges on one caveat, that the reader has (very) basic grasp of general chemical knowledge.

Organic Model Kit, 27 Oct 2004
This is a really useful product. These ARE the molymods(TM) that schools accross the UK use. The contents is quite sufficient for making a lot of organic models, other kits may offer a better range of odd atoms ie metals etc(see Philip Harris).

---Philip Harris is an eductaional supplier, but does supply on an individual basis---

The space filling model parts (little connectors) arent needed by myself. The kit is great to show the difference between boat/chair cyclohexane, and other such possible structural complexities. The separation tool is quite useful to save a lot of effort, cos the bonds are very strong on the first use.

An all round great kit for A-level/University Organic students. I would recomend this kit, escpecialy at the price of £18.89 I paid.

(-Amazon.co.uk, great fast service, even by cheque-)

Not a reference book, much more important than that, 20 Jun 2007
An excellent book, the text puts many important ideas into context and explains many of the underlying patterns that govern organic reaction mechanisms. Other reviews suggest that it is hard to look things up in it; so it is! You need to read this gradually from cover to cover, and I guarantee you will be much more apprecative about organic chemistry at the end. It will show you and explain patterns in behaviour that no other book does. A classic. My only compalint is that it now looks old, in layout and diagrams. Somebody needs to produce a new edition with some updated graphics..any offers anyone?

NOT a list of reactions but USEFUL for your WHOLE degree!!!, 12 Jul 2004
This is considered a classic. I know some chemists who can recite this book. They swear by it. This book is not a textbook that will teach you lots of organic reactions but it's very good for telling you about organic reaction mechanims. Since it gives examples (although simple ones) to demonstrate ideas, you pick up more than you've bargained for. It's good as a reference text and excellent for things like the primary kinetic isotope effect and all the Hammet equation stuff you're bound to have to learn at some point during your degree. Also it has the advantage of not being too huge and colossal like some text books I know. All in all it's VERY worth getting if you're doing a chemistry degree (and beyond) but the price seems unfair. I'd get it used if I was getting it again. Thinking about it, I think getting textbooks used is a good idea all round. But as far as this book is concerned, it's all top notch stuff.

Worth the money, get it 2nd hand if you can, 06 Jul 2004
Undergraduate text books in chemistry are expensive. Get them 2nd hand if you can.

Sykes' book is a classic in the organic chemisty world and is a sound investement for the chemistry undergraduate. It's not an encyclopedia of all organic reactions, but it will do for all the basics, mechanisms, solid discussion, and will come in handy for learning all that physical organic chemistry you're bound to encounter.

It's also quite small and convenient to pick up, unlike those bulky American textbooks! In fact I think it's an American legal requirement for their textbooks to weigh more than a standard issue anvil. Probably why they all need SUVs with 18L engines.

Anyway, if you're going to do a chemistry degree in the UK, get Sykes' book and Clayden, Greeves, Warren & Wothers' "Organic Chemistry" (consider getting the problems and answers book for that too, if you can afford it all).

the organic chemistry bible, 15 Nov 2003
as a chemistry undergraduate in the eighties this book opened up my mind to the wonders and beauty of organic chemistry. it is compact and therefore can be read quickly but its strength lies in the author's ability to convey what at first seem complex concepts into simple yet fantastic answers. I would recommend this book to any undergraduate student of chemistry. It is a titanic of a book. Andy Evans BSc MBChB FRCA

Very well layed out, easy to follow mechanism & explanations, 27 Sep 2001
This book is well ordered and references within itself and to other books for added support. It is very good as a lecture support as all the mechanisms have there names and are explained well with examples.

Good, but with some amaercanisms, 30 Sep 2008
This book was good as a text book, but ocasionaly the American nomeculture and unit system can be annoying. I'd recomend more on molecular orbital theory (particularly in the reaction mecanisms) and atcualy using IUPAC names.

The arrangement of the text (by reaction not functional group) and the use of concepts instead of memorided facts is a step in the right direction, and the electrostatic potental maps add a colourful (some might say unnessceary) visulisation witch is most useful in the nucleophilic adition/elimination section. The design a reaction sections and synthesis question make you think about the subject in the most applicable way - as a method of producing a target molecule.

I didn't use this book as part of a course (still stuck with A-levels), so I can't comment on its usefulness, I did like it though.

Overall, good, but next edition, please stick to IUPAC guidlines and spell 'color' with a 'u'.

excellent book, thoroughly recommend, 20 Aug 2007
After picking my modules for Uni I realised I needed a good undergraduate text for organic chemistry, it's a swamp of information to learn and cope with. This text is well organised and makes learning more relaxed and enjoyable. At no point did I feel stressed at all about any of the sections. With a handy online companion and more than enough example and test questions the entire subject of organic chemistry links together. It had just enough history to keep those interested satisfied and continues to reinforce on previous ideas as it progresses through the subject matter. Not only does it take you through step by step all you need to know it does this in an original order splitting synthesis and reativity into seperate sections. All in all well worth the money - a much needed undergraduate (and beyond) textbook.

Not bad, 22 Apr 2001
Good as an introduction to the field of organic chemistry although more examples would be helpful. Probably one of the better organic chemistry textbooks around. Overall quite decent.

Excellent, for limited courses, 30 Nov 2000
This book is very useful for the basic functional groups, and makes an excellent first-year text. It is a friendly introduction to the nightmare that organic chemistry can be otherwise. It is clearly presented (unlike some of the slightly more comprehensive texts e.g Marsh) and explains things simply. Anyone wishing to get longer-term use from a book should probably look elsewhere.

An excellent text, 26 Nov 2000
As a chemistry undergraduate, I found this book very useful and extremely easy to read. It is well presented and interesting, with many practical examples. A very worthwhile buy for a first year!

the lab based chemists life saver, 02 Oct 2001
Don't be put off by the size and weight of this book. It is very easy to use book covering most aspects of practical day to day chemistry.
It contains sections on how to conduct and write up experiments, actual "recipes" for many common types of reactions, it also has more general information on how to work up, isolate and identify the products of reactions. It tries to address safety, which is becoming an increasingly appreciated topic.
A copy of this should be available for the perusal of every undergraduate and first or second year graduate students

wonderful introduction to organic chemistry, 27 Dec 2006
This book is a wonderful guide and has phenomenal explanatory power. I was grade eight when I first picked up this book and I am pretty confident that I understood every topic presented therein. The authors are very meticulous about dividing a big topic into several smaller ones for readers' ease of comprehension. Not only is this a good guide for one who has no basics in organic chemistry, it is also probably a good reference on the bookshelves of practicing organic chemists or curious people. All this praise, however, hinges on one caveat, that the reader has (very) basic grasp of general chemical knowledge.

Good, but with some amaercanisms, 30 Sep 2008
This book was good as a text book, but ocasionaly the American nomeculture and unit system can be annoying. I'd recomend more on molecular orbital theory (particularly in the reaction mecanisms) and atcualy using IUPAC names.

The arrangement of the text (by reaction not functional group) and the use of concepts instead of memorided facts is a step in the right direction, and the electrostatic potental maps add a colourful (some might say unnessceary) visulisation witch is most useful in the nucleophilic adition/elimination section. The design a reaction sections and synthesis question make you think about the subject in the most applicable way - as a method of producing a target molecule.

I didn't use this book as part of a course (still stuck with A-levels), so I can't comment on its usefulness, I did like it though.

Overall, good, but next edition, please stick to IUPAC guidlines and spell 'color' with a 'u'.

excellent book, thoroughly recommend, 20 Aug 2007
After picking my modules for Uni I realised I needed a good undergraduate text for organic chemistry, it's a swamp of information to learn and cope with. This text is well organised and makes learning more relaxed and enjoyable. At no point did I feel stressed at all about any of the sections. With a handy online companion and more than enough example and test questions the entire subject of organic chemistry links together. It had just enough history to keep those interested satisfied and continues to reinforce on previous ideas as it progresses through the subject matter. Not only does it take you through step by step all you need to know it does this in an original order splitting synthesis and reativity into seperate sections. All in all well worth the money - a much needed undergraduate (and beyond) textbook.

Not bad, 22 Apr 2001
Good as an introduction to the field of organic chemistry although more examples would be helpful. Probably one of the better organic chemistry textbooks around. Overall quite decent.

Excellent, for limited courses, 30 Nov 2000
This book is very useful for the basic functional groups, and makes an excellent first-year text. It is a friendly introduction to the nightmare that organic chemistry can be otherwise. It is clearly presented (unlike some of the slightly more comprehensive texts e.g Marsh) and explains things simply. Anyone wishing to get longer-term use from a book should probably look elsewhere.

An excellent text, 26 Nov 2000
As a chemistry undergraduate, I found this book very useful and extremely easy to read. It is well presented and interesting, with many practical examples. A very worthwhile buy for a first year!

Organic Model Kit, 27 Oct 2004
This is a really useful product. These ARE the molymods(TM) that schools accross the UK use. The contents is quite sufficient for making a lot of organic models, other kits may offer a better range of odd atoms ie metals etc(see Philip Harris).

---Philip Harris is an eductaional supplier, but does supply on an individual basis---

The space filling model parts (little connectors) arent needed by myself. The kit is great to show the difference between boat/chair cyclohexane, and other such possible structural complexities. The separation tool is quite useful to save a lot of effort, cos the bonds are very strong on the first use.

An all round great kit for A-level/University Organic students. I would recomend this kit, escpecialy at the price of £18.89 I paid.

(-Amazon.co.uk, great fast service, even by cheque-)

Not a reference book, much more important than that, 20 Jun 2007
An excellent book, the text puts many important ideas into context and explains many of the underlying patterns that govern organic reaction mechanisms. Other reviews suggest that it is hard to look things up in it; so it is! You need to read this gradually from cover to cover, and I guarantee you will be much more apprecative about organic chemistry at the end. It will show you and explain patterns in behaviour that no other book does. A classic. My only compalint is that it now looks old, in layout and diagrams. Somebody needs to produce a new edition with some updated graphics..any offers anyone?

NOT a list of reactions but USEFUL for your WHOLE degree!!!, 12 Jul 2004
This is considered a classic. I know some chemists who can recite this book. They swear by it. This book is not a textbook that will teach you lots of organic reactions but it's very good for telling you about organic reaction mechanims. Since it gives examples (although simple ones) to demonstrate ideas, you pick up more than you've bargained for. It's good as a reference text and excellent for things like the primary kinetic isotope effect and all the Hammet equation stuff you're bound to have to learn at some point during your degree. Also it has the advantage of not being too huge and colossal like some text books I know. All in all it's VERY worth getting if you're doing a chemistry degree (and beyond) but the price seems unfair. I'd get it used if I was getting it again. Thinking about it, I think getting textbooks used is a good idea all round. But as far as this book is concerned, it's all top notch stuff.

Worth the money, get it 2nd hand if you can, 06 Jul 2004
Undergraduate text books in chemistry are expensive. Get them 2nd hand if you can.

Sykes' book is a classic in the organic chemisty world and is a sound investement for the chemistry undergraduate. It's not an encyclopedia of all organic reactions, but it will do for all the basics, mechanisms, solid discussion, and will come in handy for learning all that physical organic chemistry you're bound to encounter.

It's also quite small and convenient to pick up, unlike those bulky American textbooks! In fact I think it's an American legal requirement for their textbooks to weigh more than a standard issue anvil. Probably why they all need SUVs with 18L engines.

Anyway, if you're going to do a chemistry degree in the UK, get Sykes' book and Clayden, Greeves, Warren & Wothers' "Organic Chemistry" (consider getting the problems and answers book for that too, if you can afford it all).

the organic chemistry bible, 15 Nov 2003
as a chemistry undergraduate in the eighties this book opened up my mind to the wonders and beauty of organic chemistry. it is compact and therefore can be read quickly but its strength lies in the author's ability to convey what at first seem complex concepts into simple yet fantastic answers. I would recommend this book to any undergraduate student of chemistry. It is a titanic of a book. Andy Evans BSc MBChB FRCA

Very well layed out, easy to follow mechanism & explanations, 27 Sep 2001
This book is well ordered and references within itself and to other books for added support. It is very good as a lecture support as all the mechanisms have there names and are explained well with examples.

Good, but with some amaercanisms, 30 Sep 2008
This book was good as a text book, but ocasionaly the American nomeculture and unit system can be annoying. I'd recomend more on molecular orbital theory (particularly in the reaction mecanisms) and atcualy using IUPAC names.

The arrangement of the text (by reaction not functional group) and the use of concepts instead of memorided facts is a step in the right direction, and the electrostatic potental maps add a colourful (some might say unnessceary) visulisation witch is most useful in the nucleophilic adition/elimination section. The design a reaction sections and synthesis question make you think about the subject in the most applicable way - as a method of producing a target molecule.

I didn't use this book as part of a course (still stuck with A-levels), so I can't comment on its usefulness, I did like it though.

Overall, good, but next edition, please stick to IUPAC guidlines and spell 'color' with a 'u'.

excellent book, thoroughly recommend, 20 Aug 2007
After picking my modules for Uni I realised I needed a good undergraduate text for organic chemistry, it's a swamp of information to learn and cope with. This text is well organised and makes learning more relaxed and enjoyable. At no point did I feel stressed at all about any of the sections. With a handy online companion and more than enough example and test questions the entire subject of organic chemistry links together. It had just enough history to keep those interested satisfied and continues to reinforce on previous ideas as it progresses through the subject matter. Not only does it take you through step by step all you need to know it does this in an original order splitting synthesis and reativity into seperate sections. All in all well worth the money - a much needed undergraduate (and beyond) textbook.

Not bad, 22 Apr 2001
Good as an introduction to the field of organic chemistry although more examples would be helpful. Probably one of the better organic chemistry textbooks around. Overall quite decent.

Excellent, for limited courses, 30 Nov 2000
This book is very useful for the basic functional groups, and makes an excellent first-year text. It is a friendly introduction to the nightmare that organic chemistry can be otherwise. It is clearly presented (unlike some of the slightly more comprehensive texts e.g Marsh) and explains things simply. Anyone wishing to get longer-term use from a book should probably look elsewhere.

An excellent text, 26 Nov 2000
As a chemistry undergraduate, I found this book very useful and extremely easy to read. It is well presented and interesting, with many practical examples. A very worthwhile buy for a first year!

the lab based chemists life saver, 02 Oct 2001
Don't be put off by the size and weight of this book. It is very easy to use book covering most aspects of practical day to day chemistry.
It contains sections on how to conduct and write up experiments, actual "recipes" for many common types of reactions, it also has more general information on how to work up, isolate and identify the products of reactions. It tries to address safety, which is becoming an increasingly appreciated topic.
A copy of this should be available for the perusal of every undergraduate and first or second year graduate students

wonderful introduction to organic chemistry, 27 Dec 2006
This book is a wonderful guide and has phenomenal explanatory power. I was grade eight when I first picked up this book and I am pretty confident that I understood every topic presented therein. The authors are very meticulous about dividing a big topic into several smaller ones for readers' ease of comprehension. Not only is this a good guide for one who has no basics in organic chemistry, it is also probably a good reference on the bookshelves of practicing organic chemists or curious people. All this praise, however, hinges on one caveat, that the reader has (very) basic grasp of general chemical knowledge.

Good, but with some amaercanisms, 30 Sep 2008
This book was good as a text book, but ocasionaly the American nomeculture and unit system can be annoying. I'd recomend more on molecular orbital theory (particularly in the reaction mecanisms) and atcualy using IUPAC names.

The arrangement of the text (by reaction not functional group) and the use of concepts instead of memorided facts is a step in the right direction, and the electrostatic potental maps add a colourful (some might say unnessceary) visulisation witch is most useful in the nucleophilic adition/elimination section. The design a reaction sections and synthesis question make you think about the subject in the most applicable way - as a method of producing a target molecule.

I didn't use this book as part of a course (still stuck with A-levels), so I can't comment on its usefulness, I did like it though.

Overall, good, but next edition, please stick to IUPAC guidlines and spell 'color' with a 'u'.

excellent book, thoroughly recommend, 20 Aug 2007
After picking my modules for Uni I realised I needed a good undergraduate text for organic chemistry, it's a swamp of information to learn and cope with. This text is well organised and makes learning more relaxed and enjoyable. At no point did I feel stressed at all about any of the sections. With a handy online companion and more than enough example and test questions the entire subject of organic chemistry links together. It had just enough history to keep those interested satisfied and continues to reinforce on previous ideas as it progresses through the subject matter. Not only does it take you through step by step all you need to know it does this in an original order splitting synthesis and reativity into seperate sections. All in all well worth the money - a much needed undergraduate (and beyond) textbook.

Not bad, 22 Apr 2001
Good as an introduction to the field of organic chemistry although more examples would be helpful. Probably one of the better organic chemistry textbooks around. Overall quite decent.

Excellent, for limited courses, 30 Nov 2000
This book is very useful for the basic functional groups, and makes an excellent first-year text. It is a friendly introduction to the nightmare that organic chemistry can be otherwise. It is clearly presented (unlike some of the slightly more comprehensive texts e.g Marsh) and explains things simply. Anyone wishing to get longer-term use from a book should probably look elsewhere.

An excellent text, 26 Nov 2000
As a chemistry undergraduate, I found this book very useful and extremely easy to read. It is well presented and interesting, with many practical examples. A very worthwhile buy for a first year!

wonderful introduction to organic chemistry, 27 Dec 2006
This book is a wonderful guide and has phenomenal explanatory power. I was grade eight when I first picked up this book and I am pretty confident that I understood every topic presented therein. The authors are very meticulous about dividing a big topic into several smaller ones for readers' ease of comprehension. Not only is this a good guide for one who has no basics in organic chemistry, it is also probably a good reference on the bookshelves of practicing organic chemists or curious people. All this praise, however, hinges on one caveat, that the reader has (very) basic grasp of general chemical knowledge.