Atoms Under the Floorboards by Chris Woodford

Atoms Under the Floorboards: The Surprising Science Hidden in Your Home - Chris Woodford

The first two chapters started off slowly, but the book gained momentum and became a joy to read.  This is a well-written and interesting book that discusses the physics behind everyday objects and occurrences, such as why wool keeps you warm; how detergents work; how toilets work; fluid dynamics; the science of cooking; cooling and heating; how digital camera's and music work; how light; radio and cell phones work; squeaky floors and elastics; glass and why we can see through windows; metal alloys and stainless steel; how glue works; fuel and transport; and why buildings don't fall down.  

Too bad there weren't any equations and a bit of maths.  On the other hand, the author did provide many black and white diagrams to illustrate certain key concepts.  As an additional "bonus", the author discusses the science and keeps any personal waffling to a minute minimum (for which this reader is entirely grateful).

This would make a good book for the interested general reader, teenager or even scientist who may not be familiar with everything covered in this book.  The material in this book is not over-overwhelmingly complicated, but not simplified into uselessness.  The author also includes addition reading matter suitable for the general public.