this book explains the philosophy, symbology, history and techniques of alchemy. it draws upon the works of THEOPHRASTUS BOMBASTUS VON HOHENHIEM (1493-1541, also known as paracelsus, but the other name is way more fun) and others, and gives intsructions on preparing "spagyric" medicines. and the philosopher's stone......cool!
the author is obviously very smart and has a rather scientific, empirical approach to the subject.