Water is a very unusual liquid. At the freezing temperature, solid water is less dense than liquid water; ice floats. Most solids are more dense than their corresponding liquids at the melting temperature.

Also, water has a very high heat capacity. Pouring boiling water on your hands has severe consequences. By comparison, when metallic leads is heated to melting, the molten lead can, under controlled circumstances, be poured on ones hands without causing burning.

Water is polar. As a result, it is a very good solvent. Water forms hydrogen bonds. This enhances its effectiveness as a solvent.

The USGS Water Science for Schools [local] site contains much useful information.