Classics in Total Synthesis. By K.C. Nicolaou and E. J. Sorensen

This book is essential for any synthetic organic chemist. The authors have carefully selected 36 syntheses of natural products molecules, arranged in a chronological order. The first synthesis starts with the classical synthesis of strychnine by R. B. Woodward, ginkgolide B by E. J. Corey and concludes with the most recent syntheses of brevetoxin B by K. C. Nicolaou. Every chapter begins with an important background of the target molecule, followed by retrosynthetic analysis and strategy, total synthesis and a conclusion. The book is well illustrated with clear structures, schemes and figures. Some mechanistic details−actually missing in the original papers of the target molecules −are also provided.

This text is highly recommended. It would be extremely useful for any synthetic chemist and make an ideal text book for a natural product chemistry unit or an advanced organic synthesis unit.