The third edition of this synthetic organic chemistry textbook for advanced undergraduate and graduate students has been expanded to include new information on transition metals such as novel reactions, new catalysts, ligands, reaction conditions and the applications in synthesis of complex organic molecules. Hegedus (chemistry, Colorado State U.) and Söderberg (chemistry, West Virginia U.) provide a systematic approach to the formulation, manipulation and reactivity of organometallic complexes by discussing synthetic applications of all types of transition metals. Introductory paragraphs describe such concepts as formalisms, electron counting, bonding and reaction mechanisms. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)