The text shows an excelent review of materials science fundaments and their relationship with history and current applications including conventional and new materials used in modern applications such as electronic and medicine. Problems with answers are also included. It is hard to find similar books about this subject that interestingly show historical aspects in conjuntion with basic aspects of materials.

Expert readers can probably find some topics too basic . However, the aim of the author seems to be to invite materials science beginners to be in touch with this fascinating world (such as students and young scientists and engineers). Academics can also find in this book useful information to support introductory courses and seminars concerning materials science and engineering.

I hope that Prof. Hummel can enlarge some contents in future editions adding still more historical aspects. Nevertheless, my congratulations to Prof. Hummel on the second edition.