Summary:
The book provides a detailed and humorous account of the development and experimentation with liquid rocket fuels from the early 20th century to the 1960s, highlighting the scientific challenges, explosive failures, and eccentric personalities involved in the field of rocketry. It covers both successful and disastrous attempts to create powerful propellants, offering insight into the chemistry and engineering behind space exploration.
Key points:
1. Rocket Propellant History: The book traces the evolution of rocket propellants from simple substances like gunpowder to modern, efficient fuels. It also discusses key challenges and breakthroughs.
Books similar to "Ignition!":

Napoleon's Buttons
Penny Le Couteur|Jay Burreson

Dark Sun
Richard Rhodes

Firearms
DK

The Elements
Theodore Gray

Chemistry
Inc. BarCharts

The Making of the Atomic Bomb
Richard Rhodes

Stuff Matters
Mark Miodownik

The Last Man on the Moon
Eugene Cernan|Donald A. Davis

Chemistry Essentials For Dummies
John T. Moore

A Man on the Moon
Andrew Chaikin