Organic Chemistry as a Second Language: First Semester Topics

Excellent and easy to read except it's a textbook with all the answers filled out which makes it difficult to come up with my own answers when I can see them ahead of time

Very straightforward and informative. Thanks David Klein!

My teacher mentioned this book after someone asked her about it at the start of the semester. I wish I had bought it then. One of my problems with text books is that they will define something once and then you're expected to have it mastered as it builds on that concept. This book seems to repeat things, not to where it's annoying but when he moves on to something else he'll review a previous part that applies to it. It really helps pull the material together. I wonder if my professor looks through it as well. Some of my class notes follow the book closely but that might be how everyone teachs it. I believe it was when she was covering SN1 and SN2 and the four steps to determine which way something will go based on the catalyst, reactants, etc... Anyway, buy this book. It's more than worth it to supplement your textbook and notes.

This book was amazing for my first semester orgo class. The book helped me truly master the material, and I got an A in the class. But, be careful, it doesn't cover the second semester of organic. If you buy it for your second semester course, it will only serve as a review for the first semester material. My freind did that, and she was kicking herself that she didn't have it during the first semester. I heard through the grapevine that Klein is writing a supplement to cover second semester as well. I hope it comes out real soon. Professor Klein, if you are reading this, please hurry up with the second semester book. The first book saved my semester!

I did not understand resonance structures at all using other textbooks. After reading this book. I feel like I am a master. I wished all college textbooks were at the caliber of this tiny little book. Klein is an excellent teacher. He gives the straight facts in a way that makes perfect sense and doesn't bore you to death. Understanding resonance is, I think, one of the most important aspects of organic, and you're doomed if you don't. Beware, this book does not replace your textbook or instructor. All of the important equations such as alcohol, alkyne, and ketone synthesis are no where to be found in this book. This book really gives you the fundamentals that you need to understand orgo. That reason alone is enough to get it.

I'm a JHU student who took orgo two years ago. I got a D and I had no idea what was going on. Now I am taking orgo again with Prof Klein and its an entirely different class for me. Klein has this subject broken down into basic concepts, and it makes total sense now. We aren't even required to have the $120 text book (with its additional $80 solutions manual), just this short, simple, well-outlined book which I got for a mere $20. I still use Wade and my old Carey texts for additional problems, but I can't see how you can learn orgo effectively with those texts. Buy this book, do the problems and you will have a much easier time. And Klein, you are a great teacher, by the way.

GET THIS BOOK! I'm a current pre-med student at Columbia University and i wanted a book to help me prep for my upcoming Orgo class. Though I haven't finished this book, I can honestly say it is fabulous! I had to stop reading to come and write this review. Klein def. knows his stuff. He breaks it down into PLAIN ENGLISH! And for a student like me who hates the terminology of expensive text books, this is much needed relief. Its like he's talking to directly to you. You almost expect him to call, when you're done with the book, to congratulate and wish you luck in the future. There are many examples, some simple, others tricky and a bit advanced. I truly believe that you (and I) will go into any Organic Chem class and feel very secure about the material. Do yourself a favor and get this book. It concise, compact, and an easy read...A recommended book for you to take while your on that summer vacation!