Book excerpt: Controlled/living radical polymerization (CRP) has revolutionized and revitalized the field of synthetic polymer chemistry over the last twenty years as it is now possible to prepare a wide variety of previously inaccessible macromolecules under relatively mild conditions. Fundamentals of Controlled/Living Radical Polymerization provides an in-depth coverage of the essential chemical principles that enable and govern each of the CRP methods. The book starts with a brief historical overview of the major findings in polymer science which eventually led to the development of living ionic and living radical systems. It then goes on to introduce the main CRP techniques including their mechanistic understanding. The book also provides the information needed to select the appropriate reagents and conditions to conduct various CRP methods in a practical setting. Therefore, in addition to a newcomer gaining an appreciation for what has already been accomplished, the reader will be armed with the tools needed to begin independent research. Fundamentals of Controlled/Living Radical Polymerization provides essential insight into a rapidly growing field that goes beyond a simple literature review of the area. Written by leading experts in the field, the book is an indispensible resource for all researchers, instructors, and students in polymer chemistry.