Periodic Tales by Hugh Aldersey-Williams

Periodic Tales

Unraveling the Fascinating Threads of Elemental History

Narrated byJohn Sackville
Length13h36m
Release dateOctober 7, 2025
Languageenglish
★★★★ 4.0 (1 ratings)

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Quick Facts

AuthorHugh Aldersey-Williams
NarratorJohn Sackville
Runtime13h36m
PublishedOctober 7, 2025
Rating★★★★ 4.0 / 5 (1 ratings)
CategoriesHistory, Science & Engineering, Science, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, History & Philosophy
FormatAudiobook (Digital)
PlatformAudible

About This Audiobook

Periodic Tales is a captivating audiobook that delves into the surprising ways the elements have shaped our culture, language, and history. With his prize-winning narrative skills, author Hugh Aldersey-Williams weaves a rich tapestry of stories that showcase the intricate connections between scientific discovery, social rituals, and cultural values.

From the eerie superstitions surrounding mercury to the grandiose celebrations of gold, Aldersey-Williams masterfully conveys the complex and often contradictory relationships between humans and the elements. With a keen eye for detail and a gift for storytelling, he brings the past to life, making this science and history audiobook feel both accessible and engaging.

Narrator John Sackville brings these stories to life with his smooth, measured tone, which perfectly complements Aldersey-Williams' narrative style. His subtle inflections and pacing help to create an immersive listening experience that draws the listener in, making it easy to become fully invested in the world of Periodic Tales.

Tags: Science HistoryElemental TalesPeriodic TableScience WritersHistory of ScienceCultural Anthropology

Why Listen to Periodic Tales?

  • Expert narration by John Sackville brings every character and scene to life across 13h36m of immersive audio.
  • Bestseller-quality story from Hugh Aldersey-Williams, rated 4.0 stars by 1 listeners.
  • Free with your Audible trial — keep the audiobook forever even if you cancel.
  • Perfect for commutes, workouts, and relaxation. Listen anywhere, anytime.
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Editor's Review ★★★★

AudioBook Atlas

As an editor, I was thoroughly enchanted by Periodic Tales, but there were moments when I felt the pacing could have been tightened up. At times, the narrative would veer into tangential explanations or anecdotes, which, although fascinating in their own right, disrupted the otherwise smooth flow of the story. However, these minor quibbles aside, I was consistently impressed by John Sackville's narration. His calm, authoritative voice brought the tales to life, and his ability to convey the author's enthusiasm and passion was genuinely infectious. One of the standout moments for me was the chapter on boron, which Aldersey-Williams uses to explore the intersection of science and art. The way he seamlessly weaves together the story of the element's discovery with its uses in various artistic and industrial applications was nothing short of captivating. Sackville's narration perfectly captured the sense of wonder and awe that comes with exploring the mysteries of the periodic table. Overall, I would highly recommend Periodic Tales to anyone interested in science, history, or the intersections between the two. With its engaging narrative, smooth production, and excellent narration, this audiobook is an absolute pleasure to listen to.

Download: Periodic Tales

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Periodic Tales by Hugh Aldersey-Williams is an immersive listening experience. Performed by John Sackville with a runtime of 13h36m, you can start with a free trial that you can cancel at any time. The audiobook remains yours forever, even if you end the trial.