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Hodder & Stoughton pre-empts 'eye-opening' book on chemistry from Uchegbu
Hodder & Stoughton has snapped up a “deeply personal and eye-opening" book exploring the chemistry that binds us all together, by professor and academic Ijeoma Uchegbu.
Editorial director Huw Armstrong acquired world all-language rights in Chain Reaction: A Journey into the Chemistry that Shapes Us from Adam Gauntlett at PFD in a 48-hour pre-empt. It will be published by new non-fiction imprint Hodder Press in 2026. Ivy Givens acquired North American rights for Mariner Books.
The synopsis says: “Chemistry is central to our existence and provides insight into how we interact with the world around us, from the air we breathe to the food we eat. It affects what we see, hear, smell, taste and touch. In Chain Reaction, Professor Ijeoma Uchegbu dives into the chemistry that’s underpinning our everyday, giving readers an excellent basis for understanding the physical world in which we live.”
Uchegbu said: “I am beyond excited to be joining the Hodder family. I love writing and adore science and so this book is a perfect way to unite the two great loves of my life. Right from the start of my professional life, I have been wanting to write this book. The opportunity could not have come at a better moment and I sincerely hope that readers enjoy this book as much as I did.”
Armstrong added: “Ijeoma is a rare writer – she’s able to explain complex chemical bonds in a clear and entertaining way. She’s had a remarkable life and by using her own personal experiences to explain a wider story, we’re taken into the heart of the story. It’s a real honour to be welcoming Ijeoma to Hodder and I can’t wait for readers to be taken away by Ijeoma’s words.”
Uchegbu is a Professor of Pharmaceutical Nanoscience at University College London, an inventor, and an educator. She is, a fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences, an honorary fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, a governor on the Wellcome board, a member of the Academy of Medical Sciences Council and chief scientific officer of Nanomerics Ltd, a company that she co-founded.
