New history of rubber available

A new book called Tears of the Tree: The Story of Rubber” has been published, written by John Loadman, former head of materials characterisation at the Tun Abdul Razak Research Centre in the UK.

The book offers a Historical narrative about a remarkable material, without which the modern world could not exist,” said a statement from the publisher, Oxford University Press. Describing it as First book to detail the entire history of rubber,” the author says his book also reveals much previously unknown information.”

The story is told in an unusual way, through the lives of the adventurers and scientists who pioneered the industry. It also addresses current concerns about the environment and waste-disposal.

Starting from rubber's significance in Mayan religious rituals and culture, the book takes readers through to its pivotal role in today's world,” Loadman added.

Price: £19.99 (Hardback)

ISBN 0-19-856840-1

Publication date: 7 July 2005

350 pages, 95 b/w halftones, 16 bw line drawings

More information on the OUP website

www.oup.co.uk/isbn/0-19-856840-1