Book excerpt: Arynes have been important, well-recognized reactive intermediates in organic chemistry since the first speculation of their existence at the beginning of the 20th century. In recent years, synthetic chemistry with arynes has experienced a remarkable revival, leading to diverse new reactions that provide convenient and direct access to various aromatic compounds of high synthetic significance. Comprehensive Aryne Synthetic Chemistry summarizes the progress in the synthetic utilization of arynes for noncatalytic and transition metal-catalyzed reactions developed in the last 20 years. The book covers a broad range of topics including methods of generating arynes, regioselectivity, electrophilic couplings, pericyclic reactions, transition metal-catalyzed reactions, and cycloadditions. It is ideal for advanced students and researchers working in synthetic organic chemistry in academia and industry. Presents an overview of aryne synthetic chemistry, which has experienced a remarkable revival in the 21st century Provides a systematic classification of reactions with arynes Includes comprehensive descriptions of synthetic utilization of arynes ranging from noncatalytic to transition metal-catalyzed reactions Features systematically organized reaction modes and the aromatic compounds formed from these reactions