alchemy, bombards, and pyrotechnics : the history of the explosive that changed the world
Kelly, Jack
2004
Traces the history of gunpowder from its origins in tenth-century China to the twenty-first century, discussing its effects on world civilizations and inventions, and looking at how its purpose has come full circle with gunpowder once again being used primarily for fireworks.
After his best friend is shot and killed, fourteen-year-old Langston borrows his science teacher's time machine and travels from Los Angeles in 2010 to Oxford, England, in 1278 to try to prevent Roger Bacon from publishing his formula for gunpowder.
Discusses the invention of gunpowder and its impact on the course of history, examining the chemical makeup of the substance, and looking at its military and other uses.
Traces the history of gunpowder and discusses how its development changed the face of warfare over the centuries and the ethic issues that have risen with the rise of certain weapons.