This book is an eminently readable introduction to the structure of transition metal chemistry. By virtue of its non-mathematical and strongly visual approach to bonding, it provides a most accessible text on the varied nature of the valence in d-block chemistry. Topics covered include the stability and reactivity of transition metals in their various oxidation states, spectroscopic and magnetic properties and their implications for chemical bonding in the transition metal series, and the changing roles of d electrons with respect to oxidation states. Additional details and special topics are discussed in boxed sections within the text.