Chemistry is easier to learn if it's connected to real world occurances, and there are a variety of books that you can get that deal with the chemistry of everyday phenomena. These books explain the science behind an event, covering things like crystal structure, pH, polymers, pressure, density, etc. Try:
Karukstis, Kerry and Van Heck, Gerald. Chemistry Connections: The chemical basis of everyday phenomena. (ISBN: 0124008607)
Anything in the Commentaries on the Fascinating Chemistry of Everyday Life series by Dr. Joe Schwarcz:
The Genie in the bottle (ISBN: 0716746018)
That's the way the cookie crumbles (ISBN: 1550225200)
Radar, Hula Hoops and Playful Pigs (ISBN: 071674600X)
Slashdot Mirror
Karukstis, Kerry and Van Heck, Gerald. Chemistry Connections: The chemical basis of everyday phenomena. (ISBN: 0124008607)
Anything in the Commentaries on the Fascinating Chemistry of Everyday Life series by Dr. Joe Schwarcz: