This special little book describes, in chemical terms and with formulas, the active ingredients in essential oils. It also explores the nature of odor and the rules governing how smell works. Filled with chemical formulas, this book is not for someone just getting into perfumery unless they have a solid organic chemistry background. The copy is in good condition, but contains some dings and dents. On the front cover, near the lower right, is a rather deep dent. It hasn't torn though the gloss, but it is clearly visible. There are various nicks here and there (let me know if you want photos of flaws and I’ll hit it with some raking light), but nothing fatal.