January - November (2004)

MEDICAL REFERENCE

 THE NEUROLOGICAL BASIS OF PAIN. Marco Pappagallo. McGraw-Hill.

 THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO PRESCRIPTION DRUGS 2005. James J. Rybacki, Pharm. D. HarperCollins.

Synopsis: This text (written by Doctor James Snow, former director of the NIH National Institute on Deafness) brings together analysis from the best minds in the field on the phenomenon of tinnitus. The four section manual offers deep critical insight into the affliction, with part one focused on the clinical implications of the problem and its epidemiology. From there, Snow and his writers move into the basis of the disease, analyzing tinnitus in relation to the mechanics of hearing and the structure of the ear (with insightful comment from Dr. Snow). Part three looks at management of the patient who presents with the disease, including Otologic and Audiologic evaluation. The book closes with ways the physician should approach treatment, with valuable dissertation on administering antidepressants to help control symptoms.

Recommended because: Tinnitus brings deep insight to a common disorder that encumbers thousands of patients world-wide (many of whom go undiagnosed and untreated). Although geared toward the work of the practicing Otolaryngologist, this book is also accessible for the primary care physician and the internist -- well-written and impeccably edited, these essays function on multiple levels: in addition to their research value, guidance is offered toward meeting the specific needs of the patient who presents with this frustrating ailment. For a time, tinnitus was not recognized as a serious disorder by many doctors - the stamp "Hypochondriac" accompanying that patient who complained repeatedly of prolonged ear-ringing. However, here, Snow has broken the complication of tinnitus down to its finite points, analyzing it in relation to the mechanical composition of the human ear.Recommended to Health Science libraries because it has been written on a broad plane -- serving ear specialists and internists equally well, creating obvious reference value in the process. Would further be an appropriate teaching text in advanced courses predicated on training physicians for careers as Otolaryngologists.

 DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING. HEAD AND NECK. H. Ric Harnsberger. Patricia A. Hudgins. Richard H. Wiggins III. H. Christian Davidson. W.B. Saunders.

Synopsis: Diagnostic Imaging marks the ultimate resource in surveying and identifying diseases of the head and neck. Readers of Harnsberger (Willey Chair in Neuroradiology, University of Utah School of Medicine) will find a reference book designed for practical use by radiologists and physicians in the course of patient diagnosis and treatment. The authors have spent considerable time in discussing the anatomical hurdles the clinician will face in the course of creating useful images for diagnostic purposes; the lesson here is for the technician to realize that this region of the body is unlike any other and everything has to be perfect in order for the pictures to process. Accordingly, the radiologist needs to have an exact idea of where he’s going before the testing ever begins, so as not to prolong the procedure for the patient. Diagnostic is comprehensive in scope, including information on terminology, interpretation of findings, differential diagnosis and pathology.

Recommended because: of its complete and comprehensive coverage of a complicated aspect of medicine. Harnsberger and his co-authors have done a superb job in taking their readers step-by-step through the material, stressing the fact that the radiologist must remain attentive to each and every detail of the process so that diagnosis can be rendered with certainty. Diseases in this region tend to be difficult to identify and treat and it is because of this that the physician must rely on diagnostic images before proceeding toward medical therapy (which often involves surgical intervention). Thus, this text offers keen insight into how the radiologist should approach the filming of the patient. Moreover, the text has been designed for absolute readability, with smart organization and expert use of illustrations to help physicians through issues of diagnosis and pathology.

Synopsis: One of the first texts of its kind to be devoted to the problem of nausea and vomiting in the oncology patient, Management of Nausea builds a comprehensive study of the side effects endemic to the treatment of cancer. Hesketh (a noted Professor of Medicine from Caritas St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center in Boston), has done a fine job in editing this series of essays with an editorial focus on the causes and treatments of cancer-related vomiting and nausea. Oncologists who explore this text are presented with a in depth review of the types of nausea and vomiting that flow forth from cancer treatment; new approaches to treatment meant to mitigate patient emesis; and valuable analysis of the mind-body connection regarding these symptoms. Also included is information that allows the physician to evaluate pre-existing factors as a means to predict treatment-induced vomiting.

Recommended because: The focus of this text is on lessening the severity of symptoms for the patient and increasing the quality of life during cancer treatment. Probably more than anything else (save hair loss), the fear of indefinite vomiting is the predominant thought that accompanies a diagnosis of cancer. No one wants to be sick to their stomach - the fear of it goes back to childhood and is born in the feeling that the body is out of control. Sometimes, in the course of trying to eradicate the cancer, doctors forget this all-too-important fact. However, in Management of Nausea, Hesketh has edited the text so that the reader never loses sight of this, in the process creating a book that puts the comfort of the patient first.

Recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text. Would further be an appropriate an in-office reference manual for the practicing Oncologist, presenting the most recent research on the subject.

 PRIONS AND MAD COW DISEASE. Edited by Brian K. Nunnally. Ira S. Krull. Marcel Dekker.

Synopsis: This text is dedicated to the analysis of prion proteins - believed by scientists to be the catalyst in the development of Mad Cow Disease. Here, Nunnally (a researcher stationed in Indiana), and Krull (a Chemistry Professor from Northeastern University in Boston) have compiled a group of essays that thoroughly explore the prion protein and ways it can be detected through various scientific testing methods (including bioassay, immunoassay and fluorescence). From information obtained in the testing process, scientists will then be able to take steps to evaluate the future potential for spread of the disease from animals to the human populous.

Recommended because: Of its relevance to the idea of food safety throughout the world. Like the Botulism outbreaks that plagued cultures in previous centuries, Mad Cow Disease is now a very real problem throughout the world -- with cases detected in Europe, Canada and the United States. Given the relative dearth of concrete information available on the subject of Mad Cow Disease and its origins, this text is a terribly important research tool that might hold the key to finally figuring out was to corral Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy before more widespread outbreaks occur. It should be noted that the editors have take particular care to address Mad Cow Disease in relation to other syndromes, including erudite comment on Chronic Wasting Syndrome that has afflicted North American deer and elk populations during recent decades. In light of the recent incidence of Mad Cow Disease in America - where the beef industry drives the agricultural economy - Prions is now of absolute importance to scientific communities across the globe.

 VASCULAR ANESTHESIA. Joel A. Kaplan. Carol L. Lake. Michael J. Murray. Churchill Livingstone.

Recommended to all Health Science libraries as a general reference text. Would further be an invaluable resource for the vascular surgeon and cardiologist as a supporting reference. Obviously a ‘must have’ for all radiology departments and anesthesiologists because of its breadth and depth.  

Synopsis: Major surgical reference presenting research and commentary from over 300 contributors in the field of general and vascular surgery. This revised edition is dedicated to the topic of contemporary surgical management - thus making it an ideal resource for the practicing surgeon as it addresses many of the most recent advances in the field. Dr. Cameron (Johns Hopkins School of Medicine) has done a distinguished job in editing and formatting this massive text -- covering various techniques and approaches to the surgery process, including an in depth chapter on minimally invasive Laparoscopic procedures (a technique which cuts down on hospital stays and patient recovery time). Wonderfully illustrated with over one thousand graphics which further assist the surgeon in practical preparation for the operating room.

Recommended because: Of the scope of its coverage. In terms of surgery manuals, Current sets the standard - its writing, so clear and detailed, is well-suited to any physician who performs a variety of surgeries under myriad circumstances. For the surgeon and the student of surgery, having the most recent research at hand is imperative to being able to help patients and treat disease. And this text sews together the most current thoughts on the subject and presents them in a single volume. By formatting the book in this way, Cameron (and contributors) have made the material easily accessible and thus more practical for doctors and students to use on a regular basis. Especially note-worthy for its coverage of ways the surgeon should approach treatment of GERD, Barrett’s Esophagus and Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (as well as other GI afflictions). Moreover, because of its wealth of illustrations and clear-focused design, Current marks an attractive study tool for doctors to consult in preparation for board examinations and certifications.

Synopsis: Important new text building into the study of the genome - the center of the cell which contains the complete genetic composite of an organism. DeSalle and Yudell have authored a detailed and thorough analysis of the genomic structure of the human cell, exploring and dissecting its layers to reveal the many dimensions of our makeup. Welcome To is both timely and cutting-edge - looking at how recent discoveries within the study of genetics can be applied to medical science and to agriculture in ways that will further our survival (and evolution).

Recommended because: Of its readability and clear presentation. DeSalle and Yudell have done a remarkable job in presenting this complex material so as to make it equally meaningful for the scientist, instructor and student. Probably one of the biggest hurdles with the study of this subject matter is in the intimidation factor - because of its inherent complexities, undergraduate students tend to be scared away from the topic. Welcome To offers a comprehensive text that benefits greatly from the writing and editing. Obvious steps have been taken to make this material clear and comprehensible, as well as thought-inducing and interesting. The result is the first text we’ve seen to cover new discoveries in DNA research in a way that has the potential to capture a broad audience.

Recommended for all college-level libraries as a general reference text. Should further be considered as a class text in any course that investigates genetics and cell research.

Synopsis: This selection comprises the CD-ROM version of the textbook of the same name, providing a thorough exploration into the different (primary) stages of Atherosclerosis. Dr. Stary (from the Louisiana State Health Sciences Center) has created a well-developed study that is meant to illuminate the practicing physician on the different masks these all too-common vascular lesions wear. Moreover, the CD allows the physician a more interactive learning approach, as these detailed color illustrations give the reader the chance to truly understand how this disease proceeds to attack human tissue.

Recommended because: of the in depth nature of the text. Rather than only deal with symptoms and treatment, Stary instead chooses to investigate the nature and form and structure of Atherosclerosis lesions and the way that they change over time and according to medical intervention. By taking this approach, Stary promotes a more thorough understanding of the disease and its impact on the patient, promoting the ability of the physician to more readily identify whether the disease is regressing, worsening, or remaining stable. Further, the illustrations augment the author’s analysis and allow both doctor (and student) to examine the subject at length and in detail (the CD affording the reader multiple options for viewing and enlarging each slide).

Recommended to all Health Science libraries as a research tool in the discipline of cardiovascular study. Further recommended to all cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons as an in-office reference. However, the subject material is most likely far too advanced for lower-division medical students, and instead is written with the experienced physician in mind.

 CLINICAL HANDBOOK OF PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS. Edited by Kalyna Z. Bezchlibnyk-Butler and J. Joel Jeffries. Hogrefe and Huber.

Synopsis: This reference guide provides a detailed summary of all psychotropic drugs being used today. This book, meant primarily for the practicing physician, is the ultimate reference tool in that it allows the doctor access to vital information so that he does not blindly prescribe drugs to a patient without fully examining the ramifications of his decisions. Exhaustive in the ground it covers, Clinical reports on the therapeutic effects of each drug; also expands on product indications, proper dosing, onset and duration of effect, adverse effects, special precautions, toxicity risks, geriatric considerations and patient instructions (among other information).

Recommended because: Clinical Handbook is a necessary reference book that should be readily available to both physicians and patients alike. Too many times, doctors will prescribe drugs to a patient without fully analyzing the effect the medicine is likely to have. This handbook provides an affordable reference guide for physicians to have in their offices - -something to be consulted before they prescribe medication to any individual. Moreover, Clinical is recommended reading for patients who want to know about the drugs they are ingesting. Although written in a technical format (this is unavoidable because of the scientific subject matter), most patients will at least be able to gain a working knowledge of the data, thus allowing them to formulate questions for their physicians.

Appropriate for Health Science libraries as a general reference text. Further recommended to public sector libraries as a consumer health reference guide. Invaluable for all internists, psychiatrists and primary care physicians as a handy office reference.

 BIOSTATISTICS (A Methodology For The Health Sciences). Gerald van Belle, Lloyd D. Fisher, Patrick J. Heagerty, Thomas Lumley. Wiley.

Synopsis: This text compiles information on ways to treat damaged tissue and promote the regeneration of cells, including the revolutionary work of Dr. Rong Xiang Xu. Xu, a esteemed professor from China, began his research after tiring of not being able to alleviate the horrific pain burn victims endure. Finally, Xu came up with a technique called "Moist Exposed Burns Treatment" which focuses, in part, on the way that damaged tissue ‘re-grows’ when exposed to different environments. This treatment, in conjunction with an ointment which Xu also created (Moist-Exposed Burns Ointment), serves to promote the growth of new tissue to replace the irreparable -- treatment that promotes healing among burn victims rather than settling for a "wait-and-see" course of non-action.

Recommended because: This is ground breaking scientific research and could mitigate suffering for thousands of burn patients across the boundaries of the world. Aside from the immediate value to burn victims, Xu’s theories are important in light of both immunology and stem cell research: Xu’s work is steeped in the way that cells live and feed and thrive, and his efforts could open new doors with respect to the way that we approach treatment of other disease, including AIDS and cancer.

Recommended to all health science libraries as a general reference text -- an important book that begins to bridge the gap between eastern medicine and western scientists.

 A CLINICIAN’S DICTIONARY OF PATHOGENIC MICROORGANISMS. James J. Jorgensen and Michael A. Pfaller. American Society For Microbiology.

Synopsis: This pocket-sized dictionary lists descriptions/definitions of all pathogenic microorganisms, offering physicians and students a quick and handy guide to identifying the various agents of disease. Divided into four sections (Bacteria, Fungi, Parasites and Viruses), Jorgensen and Pfaller have mastered the "bird’s eye" description here, defining items in compact sentences, creating an immediate point of reference for their readers.

Recommended because: This book is the consummate medical reference guide: a dictionary that covers the complex face of the microorganism in a clear, logical and concise style - the authors careful to identify each pathogen and its origins in an attempt to lead the physician towards proper diagnosis and treatment.

Recommended to all health science libraries as a general reference text, with equal value to both the practicing physician and the student because of its broad coverage of the material .

Order this selction from booksmd.com

 CAMPBELL’S UROLOGY (Study Guide). Second edition. Patrick C. Walsh. Alan Retik. E. Darracott Vaughan. Alan J. Wein. W.B. Saunders.

Synopsis: This study guide has been written as a companion to the 8th edition of Campbell’s Urology -- which marks the authoritative text on all aspects of urologic study. Campbell’s provides a quick reference tool for both the student and young doctor seeking certification in the field, with over 2,800 practice questions included that explore the reader’s true depth of knowledge and understanding. This study guide draws a direct chapter-by-chapter parallel to its ‘parent’ text, allowing the reader the ability to quickly access material and investigate each layer deeply.

Recommended because: It does not short-cut the material as many study guides tend to do. Instead, this book is just that -- a guide meant to help navigate the student through the various aspects of the sub-specialty of urology, thus promoting a deeper understanding of the subject (rather than serving as some superficial memory ‘coach’). To this end, detailed explanations are provided that explain why each answer is correct - yet another unique feature of the Saunder’s line of study guides.

Recommended to all health science libraries as a general reference text. Also will prove essential to all fellows and young physicians considering specialized practice as a urologist.

Recommended because: Criminal Procedure is simply the most lucid text we have seen on this very complicated material. Ferdico writes with a focused and clear style, providing the student with information in a manner that facilitates deep understanding (instead of promoting mere memorization of data for testing purposes). Ferdico outlines the law by citing case authority, then attempts to clarify the case language by expanding on the Court’s impetus behind its rulings. By approaching the inner-workings of criminal procedure in this manner, students are forced to analyze theory and fact as it applies to the study of the law. This edition includes a free Crime and Evidence in Action CD-ROM, access to a book-companion website, and 4 months of free access to Infotrac.

Recommended to all college-level libraries as general reference text. Further recommended as a teaching text for all lower-division Administration of Justice courses:  young would-be police officers would be well-served to begin their exploration of this material early in their academic careers, and this text is a natural starting point.

Synopsis: This text, now in its third edition, offers students an introductory to fiction, poetry and drama - a book that builds on the topics from the essence of the foundation, escorting the first year literature student through an array of the best of the written word. Each chapter begins with an analysis of the genre ("What is a Short Story"/"What is a Poem?"), before moving into the elements of each style (instructing on how to read and analyze a piece). From this, we move into discussion of the writers (and the works). For example, in the fiction section, the Charters do an exemplary job in thoroughly dissecting the form: explaining the difference between ‘plot’ and ‘setting’ in a way that is meaningful to the student. But the journey does not end here; instead, the authors immediately throw the definitions in ‘motion,’ presenting a series of works that will move young readers to apply what they’re learning as they’re learning. This wonderful anthology includes works by Chekov, Poe, Steinbeck, as well as seldom anthologized writers like Eudora Welty and Amy Tan.

Recommended because: The Charters (Ann is known for her sterling work on the Jack Kerouac archive and Sam is a renown music producer and writer) have achieved a rarity in textbooks: although this tool is meant to teach the fledgling literature student, they have personalized their ‘lectures’ so as to make the dissertations a part of the poems and stories they speak to. Accordingly, Literature teaches as it entertains, exposing the heretofore hidden layers of these wondrous worlds -- cutting to the core, meat past bone, exposing the sun glowing across the stark blue shoulders of her sky. In short, this book builds an enthusiasm for the practice of writing and for the products of its solitary and painful road. On all levels - from design, to organization, to editing, to content - this one is perfect.Recommended to libraries on the college level and in the public sector as a general reference text. Recommended as a class text in all introduction to literature courses on both the college and high school levels.

 THE FILM EXPERIENCE. An Introduction. Timothy Corrigan. Patricia White. Bedford/St. Martins.

Synopsis: Text dedicated to providing the student with insight into how to watch films and then analyze them as a means to build skills leading toward in depth written analysis. In Experience, Corrigan and White attempt to bring the reader to the realization that watching a film is an interactive activity -- one in which a relationship between viewer and movie evolves slowly over time. As the authors note, it is not until this relationship matures can one competently write about film and its myriad processes. Accordingly, the authors take us on a mystical journey through the art of the cinema, covering the subject in its entirety (from marketing and distribution to soundtrack and editing) to show the reader everything that has to fall together with synchronized organization before a movie takes on a face and becomes a living breathing being.

Recommended because: Of the way Corrigan and White have organized this material and presented it -- the writing clear and easy to read, with expert use of illustrations that serve as working examples of the concepts discussed. By doing this, the authors create an interactive classroom manual meant to be consulted as the student prepares to view a film and sift through the scenes of the story being told. In this grand era of technology (when computers can talk and play music and calculate figures), the art form of the film has pretty much stayed the same. And this book provides a point of reference for the young student, teaching him what to look for in a movie as he places himself within the context of the bigger ideas that a serious film will naturally embody.

Synopsis: This text comes with two CD-ROMS and looks to explore ways to teach students to confront the task of speaking in public. As a student who stuttered and fled from talking aloud in school, I can attest to the fact that these principles are quite hard to master. Art of Public seeks to teach students to be less afraid of speaking in public by forcing them to practice the activity and then grade their performance. Handy workbook exercises draw the shy student out of his shell.

Recommended because: The text artfully confronts the subject and provides deep insight into things a student can do to enhance his public speaking skills. The package includes many workbook activities that allow the student to practice little things all in an effort to build confidence and ready him for the stage. The evaluation forms allow students to quickly evaluate their performances, teaching them to look for the specific things that give a speech its quality. Finally, the TopicFinder suggests possible themes students might want to explore for their speeches -- a feature which demonstrates that it’s easier to talk about subjects you have an interest in.

Recommended as a teaching text for all undergraduate Speech 1A classes because of its practical exercises and clear presentation. Further, we recommended it to all college-level libraries as a general reference text.

SOCIAL SCIENCE TOPICS

 EDUCATION, GLOBALIZATION, AND THE STATE IN THE AGE OF TERRORISM. Edited by Michael A. Peters. Paradigm.

Synopsis: This first-rate text allows the novice to become competent in preparing/developing multimedia presentations. Many different topics are covered, including project development, graphics, video/sound and how to choose software. Also, well-designed project exercises outline approaches to formally drafting the presentation (note the outstanding segment on the multiple uses of Adobe’s Persuasion).

Recommended because: This is a fine starter’s manual, written for the beginner who finds himself in the midst of learning how to use multiple media to design presentations. Many of these types of texts tend to "jump in" too fast, and Peck (with over two decades worth of experience in the field) has done a fine job in taking the reader through these topics in a well-paced and comprehensive way: the way each chapter builds on the next naturally allows the student to absorb the information completely.

Recommended to all public sector and college-level libraries as a general reference text. Would further serve as a teaching text in the fields of graphic design, art/graphics and journalism, providing information on how these changing technologies can be applied to the classroom.

Synopsis: Now in its 11th edition, Sax’s is a textbook known to many academicians as the definitive source analyzing some 26,000 hazardous substances found in commercial use today. This in depth analysis offers myriad insights, providing information on toxicological, reactive, explosive and regulatory levels. In Sax’s, Lewis (a noted chemist) has compiled the ultimate resource for those who come in contact with potentially life-threatening materials, analyzing the Immediate Life or Health levels for over 1,000 chemicals, with vital analysis of toxicity effects and carcinogenic potential relating to human tissue. With comprehensive regulatory data included, representing agencies such as OSHA and the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Recommended because: Of its obvious and long-term reference value. Now in its sixth decade, Sax’s couldn’t be more relevant. In this age of terrorism and bioterrorism, communities in both urban and rural settings need to have the most up-to-date information available for dealing with dangerous properties. Here, the data is all in one place -- meticulously researched and laid out for quick and easy reference. Aside from its teaching value, Sax’s is appropriate for use by fire departments (city and forestry), transportation clean-up crews and law enforcement, for it provides guidance on how to evaluate dangerous industrial substances and how to withstand exposure.

Synopsis: This handbook is one of the first of its kind to cover the complete spectrum of fluorous chemistry - a process of investigation that allows a chemical compound to be analyzed via "single pot" reactions, thus allowing the chemist to look at properties in their most pristine form. Accordingly, The Handbook offers insight into the basic concepts of this ground-breaking research technique, an in depth study of solvation and material properties that ignites the mind and imagination of  the advanced student of chemistry. Commentary from the leading researchers in the field addresses all facets of fluorous chemistry, including up-to-date analysis on fluorous mixture separation techniques and invaluable counsel on laboratory procedures for applying the text material.

Recommended because: Of the scope of its coverage and its cutting-edge subject matter. Gladysz, Curran and Horvath have not only compiled one of the first handbooks focused on the task of demystifying fluorous chemistry, but they have written their text in a way to encourage the laboratory chemist to be creative and embark on his own investigation: in the true spirit of science the reader is called on to take the material, personalize it, and then make it his own. Also note worthy for the way it cuts down on preparation time so that the chemist’s energies can be devoted to exploration and experimentation.

Synopsis: This text marks a comprehensive study of the elements. In addition to multidimensional investigation of the elemental tables, Enghag (a world renown chemist and one of the leading researchers in the field) has taken the study a step further and delved into the history of this area of science - analyzing how the elements apply to daily life (as well as to the study of biology, chemistry and physics). Here, in an encyclopedia that brims with life-long reference value, the student has the whole and complete record of the elements at his fingertips. Includes invaluable data on isotope lists and thermodynamics.

Recommended because: Enghag has attempted to personalize this often "dry" area by including in his study both historical and practical aspects of the subject matter. Unfortunately, many scientists tend to be myopic in their teaching and thus students are driven away. In Encyclopedia, Enghag has included information about how we apply this data to our daily lives without even knowing it, addressing the ways that the elements impact modern engineering and the course of industry. By personalizing the material in this way, Enghag captures the reader’s complete attention.

Synopsis: This is the authoritative text on space science, examining the history of space study during the past century. Magnificent illustrations augment the text that takes us step-by-step from the beginning of space research to the present. All major topics are analyzed in detail, including a wonderful chapter on The Moon before Apollo by James R. Arnold. Also, in depth discussions of the Milky Way, Solar System (see The Active Sun by Alexander and Acton) and early space research come together to build the ultimate reference text. Masterfully edited and perfectly complete.

Recommended because: There is no finer text available covering these subject areas. What we have here is the comprehensive chronicle of man in pursuit of the heavens. Simply, Century Of Space is exhaustive in its scope and flawless in its presentation. Written by the foremost experts in the field, students will find in this text the most accurate reportage available.

Recommended to all libraries as a general reference text, collecting essays from the leading thinkers in space science. College libraries ( junior college through university level) should have this text available to its students for research purposes. Public sector libraries should also have on hand for the general reader: I venture to say that such a research tool will most likely never again be duplicated in the field.

Synopsis: This encyclopedia, in a convenient single volume, provides short summaries of the most relevant subject matter related to the study of Psychology and Behavioral Science. In its 3rd edition, Corsini collects comment from 800 contributing writers who dissect a myriad of topics, including addiction; Differential Psychology; psychological trauma as related to homelessness; grief; and the history of psychological assessment. Many chapters contain a list of subject references and suggested readings for further understanding, thus broadening the scope of the text and increasing its study value.

Recommended because: The encyclopedic format serves the material well - rather than fall into the over-writing trap that many psychology texts do, Corsini instead provides well-developed essays on the basis of all major psychological topics, with expert editing and subject development coming together to create a useful and up-to-date reference guide. The writers here get to the core of their subjects and outline them with cogent detail. From that point, the reader (should he have a deeper interest and crave more data), will have a foundational understanding to pursue a more in depth study.