Helpful starting point for BMAT candidates, 03 Oct 2005
This book contains tips and advice on what to expect on the BMAT test and what kind of skills you need to develop to do well. The majority of the book is taken up by a worked BMAT style paper. Each question has a commentary about different ways of approach and the techniques that could save you time. It also has copies of the answer sheet you'll have to fill in on the day of the test and the marking scheme. Reading this book alone would not be a complete preparation for the test - unless you ace all the questions - and further study texts are recommended inside. If you're not sure whether to buy it or not, try the online BMAT test first, if you need further explanation of what the test involves this is useful. But if that satistisfies your curiousity, use the time to swot up on your science skills or spend the money on reasoning books instead.
It only took me about 3 hours to go through this book but it did help me evaluate the skills I need to develop.

Helpful starting point for BMAT candidates, 03 Oct 2005
This book contains tips and advice on what to expect on the BMAT test and what kind of skills you need to develop to do well. The majority of the book is taken up by a worked BMAT style paper. Each question has a commentary about different ways of approach and the techniques that could save you time. It also has copies of the answer sheet you'll have to fill in on the day of the test and the marking scheme. Reading this book alone would not be a complete preparation for the test - unless you ace all the questions - and further study texts are recommended inside. If you're not sure whether to buy it or not, try the online BMAT test first, if you need further explanation of what the test involves this is useful. But if that satistisfies your curiousity, use the time to swot up on your science skills or spend the money on reasoning books instead.
It only took me about 3 hours to go through this book but it did help me evaluate the skills I need to develop.

Basic information for beginners but some stuffing and vague about important detail in parts, 09 Aug 2008
A standard work often provided in starter kits and it covers the basics in a simple easy to read fashion. Katie Thear is an experienced keeper and she includes some useful tips she's picked up from her own experiences. However I find the subject poorly researched and the information rather sketchy in places and lacking in consistency. It's rather like she has written it just from her own knowledge and experiences only. Some areas she dwells on in uneccessary detail for beginners needs while others which need a more detailed explaination are just skimmed over. There's also some uneccessary padding with brief chapters on showing and breeding which aren't of much interest to beginners and don't contain enough detail to enable anyone to get involved anyway. She has written a book on incubation so I suspect if you want to expand your hobby to breeding you can read that. The chapter on breeds is probably more comprehensive than beginners need and covers far more breeds than is really neccessary. If you are going to cover breeds their suitability for beginners should be at least be discussed but it reads a bit like a indiscriminating ragbag list of breeds she has come across with each breed being described in an inconsistent manner. It only gives a passing coverage to raising birds for the table and really is aimed at keeping layers. The index is just attrocius making it useless as a quick reference. Having said all this it does contain some sound advice for beginners from an experienced keeper though it falls well short of a decent reference book.

Good info but few colour pics, 17 Jul 2008
This book has a fair amount of good information but disapointingly it has mostly black and white pictures - which seems very old fashioned these days. It has a large section on purebreeds which I think could've been reduced in order to make way for more of the useful information on care and/or health.

Heritage breeds not mentioned, 23 May 2008
This book is okay and gives a good amount of information. However, it would have been good to mention that there are so-called heritage chicken in most countries. These chicken breeds are endangered and many countries have special programs of conserving them. It is, of course, nice to have dozens of fancy chicken breeds to choose from but it would be a good thing to remind people that own, national, culturally and historically important heritage breeds should always be the priority. Also, those are the chicken breeds that are most accustomed to local climate. For example, in Scandinavian area, there are many breeds that survive in harsh conditions and like to go out even in the snow. It is of course understandable that a small book cannot review all the breeds in the world. However, just a small note of the existence of heritage breeds would encourage people to search for more information on the topic. Other than that the book is okay and I really like the general tone of promoting self-sufficient lifestyle.

Great starter book, 17 Oct 2007
Very helpful book if you're thinking of keeping chooks in your back garden, all basic information you'll need, I found though that a lot of space was given over to the different breeds which could have been used for more details on looking after chickens, but would recommend it to anyone.

A great book & British too!, 24 Aug 2007
There are a lot of great books out there for beginners, but most of them are American, so the resources pages are not helpful to those of us starting out in the UK.

This book is published by Broad Leys, who are a small independent British publishers specialising in books for smallholders, homesteaders, poultry keepers and organic gardeners.

Exactly what I was looking for!

Helpful starting point for BMAT candidates, 03 Oct 2005
This book contains tips and advice on what to expect on the BMAT test and what kind of skills you need to develop to do well. The majority of the book is taken up by a worked BMAT style paper. Each question has a commentary about different ways of approach and the techniques that could save you time. It also has copies of the answer sheet you'll have to fill in on the day of the test and the marking scheme. Reading this book alone would not be a complete preparation for the test - unless you ace all the questions - and further study texts are recommended inside. If you're not sure whether to buy it or not, try the online BMAT test first, if you need further explanation of what the test involves this is useful. But if that satistisfies your curiousity, use the time to swot up on your science skills or spend the money on reasoning books instead.
It only took me about 3 hours to go through this book but it did help me evaluate the skills I need to develop.

Basic information for beginners but some stuffing and vague about important detail in parts, 09 Aug 2008
A standard work often provided in starter kits and it covers the basics in a simple easy to read fashion. Katie Thear is an experienced keeper and she includes some useful tips she's picked up from her own experiences. However I find the subject poorly researched and the information rather sketchy in places and lacking in consistency. It's rather like she has written it just from her own knowledge and experiences only. Some areas she dwells on in uneccessary detail for beginners needs while others which need a more detailed explaination are just skimmed over. There's also some uneccessary padding with brief chapters on showing and breeding which aren't of much interest to beginners and don't contain enough detail to enable anyone to get involved anyway. She has written a book on incubation so I suspect if you want to expand your hobby to breeding you can read that. The chapter on breeds is probably more comprehensive than beginners need and covers far more breeds than is really neccessary. If you are going to cover breeds their suitability for beginners should be at least be discussed but it reads a bit like a indiscriminating ragbag list of breeds she has come across with each breed being described in an inconsistent manner. It only gives a passing coverage to raising birds for the table and really is aimed at keeping layers. The index is just attrocius making it useless as a quick reference. Having said all this it does contain some sound advice for beginners from an experienced keeper though it falls well short of a decent reference book.

Good info but few colour pics, 17 Jul 2008
This book has a fair amount of good information but disapointingly it has mostly black and white pictures - which seems very old fashioned these days. It has a large section on purebreeds which I think could've been reduced in order to make way for more of the useful information on care and/or health.

Heritage breeds not mentioned, 23 May 2008
This book is okay and gives a good amount of information. However, it would have been good to mention that there are so-called heritage chicken in most countries. These chicken breeds are endangered and many countries have special programs of conserving them. It is, of course, nice to have dozens of fancy chicken breeds to choose from but it would be a good thing to remind people that own, national, culturally and historically important heritage breeds should always be the priority. Also, those are the chicken breeds that are most accustomed to local climate. For example, in Scandinavian area, there are many breeds that survive in harsh conditions and like to go out even in the snow. It is of course understandable that a small book cannot review all the breeds in the world. However, just a small note of the existence of heritage breeds would encourage people to search for more information on the topic. Other than that the book is okay and I really like the general tone of promoting self-sufficient lifestyle.

Great starter book, 17 Oct 2007
Very helpful book if you're thinking of keeping chooks in your back garden, all basic information you'll need, I found though that a lot of space was given over to the different breeds which could have been used for more details on looking after chickens, but would recommend it to anyone.

A great book & British too!, 24 Aug 2007
There are a lot of great books out there for beginners, but most of them are American, so the resources pages are not helpful to those of us starting out in the UK.

This book is published by Broad Leys, who are a small independent British publishers specialising in books for smallholders, homesteaders, poultry keepers and organic gardeners.

Exactly what I was looking for!

Essential Haematology - my review, 15 Jan 2007
An extraordinarily comprehensive textbook covering all aspects of Haematology, brought to life by fantastic use of full colour illustrations, diagrams and photographs. Since a thorough knowledge of Haematology is the backbone of medical diagnosis, this book is definitely to be recommended to all medical students...and beyond!

Lots of detail but a useful reference!, 22 Dec 2006
Haematology is an under-taught area of the undergraduate medical curriculum not clearly sitting in any of the general fields which as medical students we are exposed to.

This book is really well illustrated with some very insightful microscopy slides with good text to back it up and explain the material. This is in some contrast to the competition out there.

On the negative side however, there is more detail than the undergraduate needs, but this is admitted in the preface and blue lines indicate the 'extension material' which is necessary for 'honours students'!

I've always had problems with understanding haematological malignancies and this book has proven very helpful in this regard. It's a useful reference which can go a long way to addressing the gap between what is taught and what is expected! Whether you're a medical student or junior doctor this is a great book.


Essential Haematology, 07 Dec 2006
Essential Haematology is an excellent core text. Filled with coloured diagrams, radiographs, and clinical pictures the text is beautifully illustrated through out. The book is laid out in an easy to understand way and is comprehensively and concisely written covering the basic medical sciences of haematological disorders, Clinical featres, Diagnostic Tests and Management of various conditions. This book is useful to not only medical students and nurses but also Junior doctors as well.

Basic Reading, 19 Jun 2004
Currently working in Haematology , I felt that this text sat out of place with me - it was too bulky to have sitting around in a pocket or Junior Doctors office desk , and also more basic than the excellent Oxford Handbook - but it was made redundant at home by the availability of Postgraduate Haematology and the invaluable source of information available on the internet . It is comprehensive enough for medical students , but I felt that further depth would be useful - having heard some questions that students have asked .
In terms of layout and presentation , though , it is very pleasing on the eye , and deserves to not be underestimated as a starter text .

Essential reading for your studies in haematology, 27 Jun 2002
This book is a comprehensive text covering all aspects of haematology for both under- and postgraduate students. Covering all the major topics including genetics, classification, clinical aspect and staging and treatment, it can be used at all stages of your undergraduate training. Easy to read and highly informative it is divided up into manageable chapters with haematological malignancies also covered. It uses numerous photographs to illustrate clinical features and references at the end of each chapter provide an excellent basis for further reading. Overall an essential text for both students and doctors to have on their shelves!

Helpful starting point for BMAT candidates, 03 Oct 2005
This book contains tips and advice on what to expect on the BMAT test and what kind of skills you need to develop to do well. The majority of the book is taken up by a worked BMAT style paper. Each question has a commentary about different ways of approach and the techniques that could save you time. It also has copies of the answer sheet you'll have to fill in on the day of the test and the marking scheme. Reading this book alone would not be a complete preparation for the test - unless you ace all the questions - and further study texts are recommended inside. If you're not sure whether to buy it or not, try the online BMAT test first, if you need further explanation of what the test involves this is useful. But if that satistisfies your curiousity, use the time to swot up on your science skills or spend the money on reasoning books instead.
It only took me about 3 hours to go through this book but it did help me evaluate the skills I need to develop.

Basic information for beginners but some stuffing and vague about important detail in parts, 09 Aug 2008
A standard work often provided in starter kits and it covers the basics in a simple easy to read fashion. Katie Thear is an experienced keeper and she includes some useful tips she's picked up from her own experiences. However I find the subject poorly researched and the information rather sketchy in places and lacking in consistency. It's rather like she has written it just from her own knowledge and experiences only. Some areas she dwells on in uneccessary detail for beginners needs while others which need a more detailed explaination are just skimmed over. There's also some uneccessary padding with brief chapters on showing and breeding which aren't of much interest to beginners and don't contain enough detail to enable anyone to get involved anyway. She has written a book on incubation so I suspect if you want to expand your hobby to breeding you can read that. The chapter on breeds is probably more comprehensive than beginners need and covers far more breeds than is really neccessary. If you are going to cover breeds their suitability for beginners should be at least be discussed but it reads a bit like a indiscriminating ragbag list of breeds she has come across with each breed being described in an inconsistent manner. It only gives a passing coverage to raising birds for the table and really is aimed at keeping layers. The index is just attrocius making it useless as a quick reference. Having said all this it does contain some sound advice for beginners from an experienced keeper though it falls well short of a decent reference book.

Good info but few colour pics, 17 Jul 2008
This book has a fair amount of good information but disapointingly it has mostly black and white pictures - which seems very old fashioned these days. It has a large section on purebreeds which I think could've been reduced in order to make way for more of the useful information on care and/or health.

Heritage breeds not mentioned, 23 May 2008
This book is okay and gives a good amount of information. However, it would have been good to mention that there are so-called heritage chicken in most countries. These chicken breeds are endangered and many countries have special programs of conserving them. It is, of course, nice to have dozens of fancy chicken breeds to choose from but it would be a good thing to remind people that own, national, culturally and historically important heritage breeds should always be the priority. Also, those are the chicken breeds that are most accustomed to local climate. For example, in Scandinavian area, there are many breeds that survive in harsh conditions and like to go out even in the snow. It is of course understandable that a small book cannot review all the breeds in the world. However, just a small note of the existence of heritage breeds would encourage people to search for more information on the topic. Other than that the book is okay and I really like the general tone of promoting self-sufficient lifestyle.

Great starter book, 17 Oct 2007
Very helpful book if you're thinking of keeping chooks in your back garden, all basic information you'll need, I found though that a lot of space was given over to the different breeds which could have been used for more details on looking after chickens, but would recommend it to anyone.

A great book & British too!, 24 Aug 2007
There are a lot of great books out there for beginners, but most of them are American, so the resources pages are not helpful to those of us starting out in the UK.

This book is published by Broad Leys, who are a small independent British publishers specialising in books for smallholders, homesteaders, poultry keepers and organic gardeners.

Exactly what I was looking for!

Essential Haematology - my review, 15 Jan 2007
An extraordinarily comprehensive textbook covering all aspects of Haematology, brought to life by fantastic use of full colour illustrations, diagrams and photographs. Since a thorough knowledge of Haematology is the backbone of medical diagnosis, this book is definitely to be recommended to all medical students...and beyond!

Lots of detail but a useful reference!, 22 Dec 2006
Haematology is an under-taught area of the undergraduate medical curriculum not clearly sitting in any of the general fields which as medical students we are exposed to.

This book is really well illustrated with some very insightful microscopy slides with good text to back it up and explain the material. This is in some contrast to the competition out there.

On the negative side however, there is more detail than the undergraduate needs, but this is admitted in the preface and blue lines indicate the 'extension material' which is necessary for 'honours students'!

I've always had problems with understanding haematological malignancies and this book has proven very helpful in this regard. It's a useful reference which can go a long way to addressing the gap between what is taught and what is expected! Whether you're a medical student or junior doctor this is a great book.


Essential Haematology, 07 Dec 2006
Essential Haematology is an excellent core text. Filled with coloured diagrams, radiographs, and clinical pictures the text is beautifully illustrated through out. The book is laid out in an easy to understand way and is comprehensively and concisely written covering the basic medical sciences of haematological disorders, Clinical featres, Diagnostic Tests and Management of various conditions. This book is useful to not only medical students and nurses but also Junior doctors as well.

Basic Reading, 19 Jun 2004
Currently working in Haematology , I felt that this text sat out of place with me - it was too bulky to have sitting around in a pocket or Junior Doctors office desk , and also more basic than the excellent Oxford Handbook - but it was made redundant at home by the availability of Postgraduate Haematology and the invaluable source of information available on the internet . It is comprehensive enough for medical students , but I felt that further depth would be useful - having heard some questions that students have asked .
In terms of layout and presentation , though , it is very pleasing on the eye , and deserves to not be underestimated as a starter text .

Essential reading for your studies in haematology, 27 Jun 2002
This book is a comprehensive text covering all aspects of haematology for both under- and postgraduate students. Covering all the major topics including genetics, classification, clinical aspect and staging and treatment, it can be used at all stages of your undergraduate training. Easy to read and highly informative it is divided up into manageable chapters with haematological malignancies also covered. It uses numerous photographs to illustrate clinical features and references at the end of each chapter provide an excellent basis for further reading. Overall an essential text for both students and doctors to have on their shelves!

Brand new 4th edition, 28 Mar 2007
This is the new textbook for student VN's the third edition has been replaced to coincide with the new syllabus for Veterinary nursing by the RCVS.
The BSAVA Textbook of Veterinary Nursing, 4th edition has been thoroughly revised to meet the needs of today's veterinary nursing students and will also remain a favourite refresher resource for qualified VNs. While maintaining the high standards set by previous editions of Veterinary Nursing, it incorporates the new Veterinary Occupational Standards and expert knowledge. New topics include Nursing Models and complementary therapies. For ease of reference, the 4th Edition has been re-organised, grouping chapters in a more logical way. The book has been expanded, with new illustrations and the addition of colour to assist the student. It remains the core textbook, with essential information to enable Veterinary Nurses to deliver effective veterinary nursing care.

Helpful starting point for BMAT candidates, 03 Oct 2005
This book contains tips and advice on what to expect on the BMAT test and what kind of skills you need to develop to do well. The majority of the book is taken up by a worked BMAT style paper. Each question has a commentary about different ways of approach and the techniques that could save you time. It also has copies of the answer sheet you'll have to fill in on the day of the test and the marking scheme. Reading this book alone would not be a complete preparation for the test - unless you ace all the questions - and further study texts are recommended inside. If you're not sure whether to buy it or not, try the online BMAT test first, if you need further explanation of what the test involves this is useful. But if that satistisfies your curiousity, use the time to swot up on your science skills or spend the money on reasoning books instead.
It only took me about 3 hours to go through this book but it did help me evaluate the skills I need to develop.

Basic information for beginners but some stuffing and vague about important detail in parts, 09 Aug 2008
A standard work often provided in starter kits and it covers the basics in a simple easy to read fashion. Katie Thear is an experienced keeper and she includes some useful tips she's picked up from her own experiences. However I find the subject poorly researched and the information rather sketchy in places and lacking in consistency. It's rather like she has written it just from her own knowledge and experiences only. Some areas she dwells on in uneccessary detail for beginners needs while others which need a more detailed explaination are just skimmed over. There's also some uneccessary padding with brief chapters on showing and breeding which aren't of much interest to beginners and don't contain enough detail to enable anyone to get involved anyway. She has written a book on incubation so I suspect if you want to expand your hobby to breeding you can read that. The chapter on breeds is probably more comprehensive than beginners need and covers far more breeds than is really neccessary. If you are going to cover breeds their suitability for beginners should be at least be discussed but it reads a bit like a indiscriminating ragbag list of breeds she has come across with each breed being described in an inconsistent manner. It only gives a passing coverage to raising birds for the table and really is aimed at keeping layers. The index is just attrocius making it useless as a quick reference. Having said all this it does contain some sound advice for beginners from an experienced keeper though it falls well short of a decent reference book.

Good info but few colour pics, 17 Jul 2008
This book has a fair amount of good information but disapointingly it has mostly black and white pictures - which seems very old fashioned these days. It has a large section on purebreeds which I think could've been reduced in order to make way for more of the useful information on care and/or health.

Heritage breeds not mentioned, 23 May 2008
This book is okay and gives a good amount of information. However, it would have been good to mention that there are so-called heritage chicken in most countries. These chicken breeds are endangered and many countries have special programs of conserving them. It is, of course, nice to have dozens of fancy chicken breeds to choose from but it would be a good thing to remind people that own, national, culturally and historically important heritage breeds should always be the priority. Also, those are the chicken breeds that are most accustomed to local climate. For example, in Scandinavian area, there are many breeds that survive in harsh conditions and like to go out even in the snow. It is of course understandable that a small book cannot review all the breeds in the world. However, just a small note of the existence of heritage breeds would encourage people to search for more information on the topic. Other than that the book is okay and I really like the general tone of promoting self-sufficient lifestyle.

Great starter book, 17 Oct 2007
Very helpful book if you're thinking of keeping chooks in your back garden, all basic information you'll need, I found though that a lot of space was given over to the different breeds which could have been used for more details on looking after chickens, but would recommend it to anyone.

A great book & British too!, 24 Aug 2007
There are a lot of great books out there for beginners, but most of them are American, so the resources pages are not helpful to those of us starting out in the UK.

This book is published by Broad Leys, who are a small independent British publishers specialising in books for smallholders, homesteaders, poultry keepers and organic gardeners.

Exactly what I was looking for!

Essential Haematology - my review, 15 Jan 2007
An extraordinarily comprehensive textbook covering all aspects of Haematology, brought to life by fantastic use of full colour illustrations, diagrams and photographs. Since a thorough knowledge of Haematology is the backbone of medical diagnosis, this book is definitely to be recommended to all medical students...and beyond!

Lots of detail but a useful reference!, 22 Dec 2006
Haematology is an under-taught area of the undergraduate medical curriculum not clearly sitting in any of the general fields which as medical students we are exposed to.

This book is really well illustrated with some very insightful microscopy slides with good text to back it up and explain the material. This is in some contrast to the competition out there.

On the negative side however, there is more detail than the undergraduate needs, but this is admitted in the preface and blue lines indicate the 'extension material' which is necessary for 'honours students'!

I've always had problems with understanding haematological malignancies and this book has proven very helpful in this regard. It's a useful reference which can go a long way to addressing the gap between what is taught and what is expected! Whether you're a medical student or junior doctor this is a great book.


Essential Haematology, 07 Dec 2006
Essential Haematology is an excellent core text. Filled with coloured diagrams, radiographs, and clinical pictures the text is beautifully illustrated through out. The book is laid out in an easy to understand way and is comprehensively and concisely written covering the basic medical sciences of haematological disorders, Clinical featres, Diagnostic Tests and Management of various conditions. This book is useful to not only medical students and nurses but also Junior doctors as well.

Basic Reading, 19 Jun 2004
Currently working in Haematology , I felt that this text sat out of place with me - it was too bulky to have sitting around in a pocket or Junior Doctors office desk , and also more basic than the excellent Oxford Handbook - but it was made redundant at home by the availability of Postgraduate Haematology and the invaluable source of information available on the internet . It is comprehensive enough for medical students , but I felt that further depth would be useful - having heard some questions that students have asked .
In terms of layout and presentation , though , it is very pleasing on the eye , and deserves to not be underestimated as a starter text .

Essential reading for your studies in haematology, 27 Jun 2002
This book is a comprehensive text covering all aspects of haematology for both under- and postgraduate students. Covering all the major topics including genetics, classification, clinical aspect and staging and treatment, it can be used at all stages of your undergraduate training. Easy to read and highly informative it is divided up into manageable chapters with haematological malignancies also covered. It uses numerous photographs to illustrate clinical features and references at the end of each chapter provide an excellent basis for further reading. Overall an essential text for both students and doctors to have on their shelves!

Brand new 4th edition, 28 Mar 2007
This is the new textbook for student VN's the third edition has been replaced to coincide with the new syllabus for Veterinary nursing by the RCVS.
The BSAVA Textbook of Veterinary Nursing, 4th edition has been thoroughly revised to meet the needs of today's veterinary nursing students and will also remain a favourite refresher resource for qualified VNs. While maintaining the high standards set by previous editions of Veterinary Nursing, it incorporates the new Veterinary Occupational Standards and expert knowledge. New topics include Nursing Models and complementary therapies. For ease of reference, the 4th Edition has been re-organised, grouping chapters in a more logical way. The book has been expanded, with new illustrations and the addition of colour to assist the student. It remains the core textbook, with essential information to enable Veterinary Nurses to deliver effective veterinary nursing care.



Best Basic Pig Book for Small Scale Pigkeeping, 05 Aug 2008
I've read at least 10 pig books in the past couple of years, but this gets my vote as the best one for the small-scale pig keeper. Covers everything you need to know (including what to do if you have to raise piglets without the mother's help, something a surprising number of books ignore) without going into too much mind-boggling detail. There are a lot of great pig books out there, but most of them are aimed at pig farms. This is more geared towards the smallholder, pet pig owner or hobbyist. And isn't the pig on the front cover just great?!!!

A Worthwhile buy, 19 Nov 2007
If you're new to pig keeping this is a good book to start with, very good sound advice offered which will help you through those first nerve wracking weeks of pig keeping. Mine is somewhat tattered and coffee stained and well thumbed. Highly recommended

Helpful starting point for BMAT candidates, 03 Oct 2005
This book contains tips and advice on what to expect on the BMAT test and what kind of skills you need to develop to do well. The majority of the book is taken up by a worked BMAT style paper. Each question has a commentary about different ways of approach and the techniques that could save you time. It also has copies of the answer sheet you'll have to fill in on the day of the test and the marking scheme. Reading this book alone would not be a complete preparation for the test - unless you ace all the questions - and further study texts are recommended inside. If you're not sure whether to buy it or not, try the online BMAT test first, if you need further explanation of what the test involves this is useful. But if that satistisfies your curiousity, use the time to swot up on your science skills or spend the money on reasoning books instead.
It only took me about 3 hours to go through this book but it did help me evaluate the skills I need to develop.

Basic information for beginners but some stuffing and vague about important detail in parts, 09 Aug 2008
A standard work often provided in starter kits and it covers the basics in a simple easy to read fashion. Katie Thear is an experienced keeper and she includes some useful tips she's picked up from her own experiences. However I find the subject poorly researched and the information rather sketchy in places and lacking in consistency. It's rather like she has written it just from her own knowledge and experiences only. Some areas she dwells on in uneccessary detail for beginners needs while others which need a more detailed explaination are just skimmed over. There's also some uneccessary padding with brief chapters on showing and breeding which aren't of much interest to beginners and don't contain enough detail to enable anyone to get involved anyway. She has written a book on incubation so I suspect if you want to expand your hobby to breeding you can read that. The chapter on breeds is probably more comprehensive than beginners need and covers far more breeds than is really neccessary. If you are going to cover breeds their suitability for beginners should be at least be discussed but it reads a bit like a indiscriminating ragbag list of breeds she has come across with each breed being described in an inconsistent manner. It only gives a passing coverage to raising birds for the table and really is aimed at keeping layers. The index is just attrocius making it useless as a quick reference. Having said all this it does contain some sound advice for beginners from an experienced keeper though it falls well short of a decent reference book.

Good info but few colour pics, 17 Jul 2008
This book has a fair amount of good information but disapointingly it has mostly black and white pictures - which seems very old fashioned these days. It has a large section on purebreeds which I think could've been reduced in order to make way for more of the useful information on care and/or health.

Heritage breeds not mentioned, 23 May 2008
This book is okay and gives a good amount of information. However, it would have been good to mention that there are so-called heritage chicken in most countries. These chicken breeds are endangered and many countries have special programs of conserving them. It is, of course, nice to have dozens of fancy chicken breeds to choose from but it would be a good thing to remind people that own, national, culturally and historically important heritage breeds should always be the priority. Also, those are the chicken breeds that are most accustomed to local climate. For example, in Scandinavian area, there are many breeds that survive in harsh conditions and like to go out even in the snow. It is of course understandable that a small book cannot review all the breeds in the world. However, just a small note of the existence of heritage breeds would encourage people to search for more information on the topic. Other than that the book is okay and I really like the general tone of promoting self-sufficient lifestyle.

Great starter book, 17 Oct 2007
Very helpful book if you're thinking of keeping chooks in your back garden, all basic information you'll need, I found though that a lot of space was given over to the different breeds which could have been used for more details on looking after chickens, but would recommend it to anyone.

A great book & British too!, 24 Aug 2007
There are a lot of great books out there for beginners, but most of them are American, so the resources pages are not helpful to those of us starting out in the UK.

This book is published by Broad Leys, who are a small independent British publishers specialising in books for smallholders, homesteaders, poultry keepers and organic gardeners.

Exactly what I was looking for!

Essential Haematology - my review, 15 Jan 2007
An extraordinarily comprehensive textbook covering all aspects of Haematology, brought to life by fantastic use of full colour illustrations, diagrams and photographs. Since a thorough knowledge of Haematology is the backbone of medical diagnosis, this book is definitely to be recommended to all medical students...and beyond!

Lots of detail but a useful reference!, 22 Dec 2006
Haematology is an under-taught area of the undergraduate medical curriculum not clearly sitting in any of the general fields which as medical students we are exposed to.

This book is really well illustrated with some very insightful microscopy slides with good text to back it up and explain the material. This is in some contrast to the competition out there.

On the negative side however, there is more detail than the undergraduate needs, but this is admitted in the preface and blue lines indicate the 'extension material' which is necessary for 'honours students'!

I've always had problems with understanding haematological malignancies and this book has proven very helpful in this regard. It's a useful reference which can go a long way to addressing the gap between what is taught and what is expected! Whether you're a medical student or junior doctor this is a great book.


Essential Haematology, 07 Dec 2006
Essential Haematology is an excellent core text. Filled with coloured diagrams, radiographs, and clinical pictures the text is beautifully illustrated through out. The book is laid out in an easy to understand way and is comprehensively and concisely written covering the basic medical sciences of haematological disorders, Clinical featres, Diagnostic Tests and Management of various conditions. This book is useful to not only medical students and nurses but also Junior doctors as well.

Basic Reading, 19 Jun 2004
Currently working in Haematology , I felt that this text sat out of place with me - it was too bulky to have sitting around in a pocket or Junior Doctors office desk , and also more basic than the excellent Oxford Handbook - but it was made redundant at home by the availability of Postgraduate Haematology and the invaluable source of information available on the internet . It is comprehensive enough for medical students , but I felt that further depth would be useful - having heard some questions that students have asked .
In terms of layout and presentation , though , it is very pleasing on the eye , and deserves to not be underestimated as a starter text .

Essential reading for your studies in haematology, 27 Jun 2002
This book is a comprehensive text covering all aspects of haematology for both under- and postgraduate students. Covering all the major topics including genetics, classification, clinical aspect and staging and treatment, it can be used at all stages of your undergraduate training. Easy to read and highly informative it is divided up into manageable chapters with haematological malignancies also covered. It uses numerous photographs to illustrate clinical features and references at the end of each chapter provide an excellent basis for further reading. Overall an essential text for both students and doctors to have on their shelves!

Brand new 4th edition, 28 Mar 2007
This is the new textbook for student VN's the third edition has been replaced to coincide with the new syllabus for Veterinary nursing by the RCVS.
The BSAVA Textbook of Veterinary Nursing, 4th edition has been thoroughly revised to meet the needs of today's veterinary nursing students and will also remain a favourite refresher resource for qualified VNs. While maintaining the high standards set by previous editions of Veterinary Nursing, it incorporates the new Veterinary Occupational Standards and expert knowledge. New topics include Nursing Models and complementary therapies. For ease of reference, the 4th Edition has been re-organised, grouping chapters in a more logical way. The book has been expanded, with new illustrations and the addition of colour to assist the student. It remains the core textbook, with essential information to enable Veterinary Nurses to deliver effective veterinary nursing care.



Best Basic Pig Book for Small Scale Pigkeeping, 05 Aug 2008
I've read at least 10 pig books in the past couple of years, but this gets my vote as the best one for the small-scale pig keeper. Covers everything you need to know (including what to do if you have to raise piglets without the mother's help, something a surprising number of books ignore) without going into too much mind-boggling detail. There are a lot of great pig books out there, but most of them are aimed at pig farms. This is more geared towards the smallholder, pet pig owner or hobbyist. And isn't the pig on the front cover just great?!!!

A Worthwhile buy, 19 Nov 2007
If you're new to pig keeping this is a good book to start with, very good sound advice offered which will help you through those first nerve wracking weeks of pig keeping. Mine is somewhat tattered and coffee stained and well thumbed. Highly recommended

Indispensible, 09 Sep 2008
This is THE book for veterinary medicine. You'll never have it far from you when studying. There's a newer version now. See no difference really except for a few pictures, and it is more cumbersome. Studying side by side with a friend, we've yet to find an entry in one that is not in the other.
This is my top rated book so far. I love it.



What a must have!!, 23 Feb 2004
I've had this dictionary since it was first published, and it has been WELL worth it and has been invaluable to me right through my biology a-levels to now being in my second year of a degree in animal management, it is never far from my side when I'm doing an assignment, and without it I'm lost, whether its to find proper definitions for a quote or to check something it is just sooo handy, both for my course and as a serious pet owner, trying to decipher some of the technical terms used in articles and textbooks. Overall, I can't fault it, and I can't see myself ever wanting to part with my copy!

Most Used Book, 27 May 2003
I am studying for a degree in Equine Science and I use this book all the time. It is the most used on my bookshelf for my assignments and I have also found it useful for refering to when revising or need something explained. It offers definitions which are detailed but easily understood. Definately worth its money

Excellent!!, 30 Oct 2001
Not only is this book useful as a dictionary, is also a great reference for quick additional pieces of information. I find myself refering to it often while I am doing a piece of work. One of the most useful Veterinary books I have purchased so far!

Helpful starting point for BMAT candidates, 03 Oct 2005
This book contains tips and advice on what to expect on the BMAT test and what kind of skills you need to develop to do well. The majority of the book is taken up by a worked BMAT style paper. Each question has a commentary about different ways of approach and the techniques that could save you time. It also has copies of the answer sheet you'll have to fill in on the day of the test and the marking scheme. Reading this book alone would not be a complete preparation for the test - unless you ace all the questions - and further study texts are recommended inside. If you're not sure whether to buy it or not, try the online BMAT test first, if you need further explanation of what the test involves this is useful. But if that satistisfies your curiousity, use the time to swot up on your science skills or spend the money on reasoning books instead.
It only took me about 3 hours to go through this book but it did help me evaluate the skills I need to develop.

Basic information for beginners but some stuffing and vague about important detail in parts, 09 Aug 2008
A standard work often provided in starter kits and it covers the basics in a simple easy to read fashion. Katie Thear is an experienced keeper and she includes some useful tips she's picked up from her own experiences. However I find the subject poorly researched and the information rather sketchy in places and lacking in consistency. It's rather like she has written it just from her own knowledge and experiences only. Some areas she dwells on in uneccessary detail for beginners needs while others which need a more detailed explaination are just skimmed over. There's also some uneccessary padding with brief chapters on showing and breeding which aren't of much interest to beginners and don't contain enough detail to enable anyone to get involved anyway. She has written a book on incubation so I suspect if you want to expand your hobby to breeding you can read that. The chapter on breeds is probably more comprehensive than beginners need and covers far more breeds than is really neccessary. If you are going to cover breeds their suitability for beginners should be at least be discussed but it reads a bit like a indiscriminating ragbag list of breeds she has come across with each breed being described in an inconsistent manner. It only gives a passing coverage to raising birds for the table and really is aimed at keeping layers. The index is just attrocius making it useless as a quick reference. Having said all this it does contain some sound advice for beginners from an experienced keeper though it falls well short of a decent reference book.

Good info but few colour pics, 17 Jul 2008
This book has a fair amount of good information but disapointingly it has mostly black and white pictures - which seems very old fashioned these days. It has a large section on purebreeds which I think could've been reduced in order to make way for more of the useful information on care and/or health.

Heritage breeds not mentioned, 23 May 2008
This book is okay and gives a good amount of information. However, it would have been good to mention that there are so-called heritage chicken in most countries. These chicken breeds are endangered and many countries have special programs of conserving them. It is, of course, nice to have dozens of fancy chicken breeds to choose from but it would be a good thing to remind people that own, national, culturally and historically important heritage breeds should always be the priority. Also, those are the chicken breeds that are most accustomed to local climate. For example, in Scandinavian area, there are many breeds that survive in harsh conditions and like to go out even in the snow. It is of course understandable that a small book cannot review all the breeds in the world. However, just a small note of the existence of heritage breeds would encourage people to search for more information on the topic. Other than that the book is okay and I really like the general tone of promoting self-sufficient lifestyle.

Great starter book, 17 Oct 2007
Very helpful book if you're thinking of keeping chooks in your back garden, all basic information you'll need, I found though that a lot of space was given over to the different breeds which could have been used for more details on looking after chickens, but would recommend it to anyone.

A great book & British too!, 24 Aug 2007
There are a lot of great books out there for beginners, but most of them are American, so the resources pages are not helpful to those of us starting out in the UK.

This book is published by Broad Leys, who are a small independent British publishers specialising in books for smallholders, homesteaders, poultry keepers and organic gardeners.

Exactly what I was looking for!

Essential Haematology - my review, 15 Jan 2007
An extraordinarily comprehensive textbook covering all aspects of Haematology, brought to life by fantastic use of full colour illustrations, diagrams and photographs. Since a thorough knowledge of Haematology is the backbone of medical diagnosis, this book is definitely to be recommended to all medical students...and beyond!

Lots of detail but a useful reference!, 22 Dec 2006
Haematology is an under-taught area of the undergraduate medical curriculum not clearly sitting in any of the general fields which as medical students we are exposed to.

This book is really well illustrated with some very insightful microscopy slides with good text to back it up and explain the material. This is in some contrast to the competition out there.

On the negative side however, there is more detail than the undergraduate needs, but this is admitted in the preface and blue lines indicate the 'extension material' which is necessary for 'honours students'!

I've always had problems with understanding haematological malignancies and this book has proven very helpful in this regard. It's a useful reference which can go a long way to addressing the gap between what is taught and what is expected! Whether you're a medical student or junior doctor this is a great book.


Essential Haematology, 07 Dec 2006
Essential Haematology is an excellent core text. Filled with coloured diagrams, radiographs, and clinical pictures the text is beautifully illustrated through out. The book is laid out in an easy to understand way and is comprehensively and concisely written covering the basic medical sciences of haematological disorders, Clinical featres, Diagnostic Tests and Management of various conditions. This book is useful to not only medical students and nurses but also Junior doctors as well.

Basic Reading, 19 Jun 2004
Currently working in Haematology , I felt that this text sat out of place with me - it was too bulky to have sitting around in a pocket or Junior Doctors office desk , and also more basic than the excellent Oxford Handbook - but it was made redundant at home by the availability of Postgraduate Haematology and the invaluable source of information available on the internet . It is comprehensive enough for medical students , but I felt that further depth would be useful - having heard some questions that students have asked .
In terms of layout and presentation , though , it is very pleasing on the eye , and deserves to not be underestimated as a starter text .

Essential reading for your studies in haematology, 27 Jun 2002
This book is a comprehensive text covering all aspects of haematology for both under- and postgraduate students. Covering all the major topics including genetics, classification, clinical aspect and staging and treatment, it can be used at all stages of your undergraduate training. Easy to read and highly informative it is divided up into manageable chapters with haematological malignancies also covered. It uses numerous photographs to illustrate clinical features and references at the end of each chapter provide an excellent basis for further reading. Overall an essential text for both students and doctors to have on their shelves!

Brand new 4th edition, 28 Mar 2007
This is the new textbook for student VN's the third edition has been replaced to coincide with the new syllabus for Veterinary nursing by the RCVS.
The BSAVA Textbook of Veterinary Nursing, 4th edition has been thoroughly revised to meet the needs of today's veterinary nursing students and will also remain a favourite refresher resource for qualified VNs. While maintaining the high standards set by previous editions of Veterinary Nursing, it incorporates the new Veterinary Occupational Standards and expert knowledge. New topics include Nursing Models and complementary therapies. For ease of reference, the 4th Edition has been re-organised, grouping chapters in a more logical way. The book has been expanded, with new illustrations and the addition of colour to assist the student. It remains the core textbook, with essential information to enable Veterinary Nurses to deliver effective veterinary nursing care.



Best Basic Pig Book for Small Scale Pigkeeping, 05 Aug 2008
I've read at least 10 pig books in the past couple of years, but this gets my vote as the best one for the small-scale pig keeper. Covers everything you need to know (including what to do if you have to raise piglets without the mother's help, something a surprising number of books ignore) without going into too much mind-boggling detail. There are a lot of great pig books out there, but most of them are aimed at pig farms. This is more geared towards the smallholder, pet pig owner or hobbyist. And isn't the pig on the front cover just great?!!!

A Worthwhile buy, 19 Nov 2007
If you're new to pig keeping this is a good book to start with, very good sound advice offered which will help you through those first nerve wracking weeks of pig keeping. Mine is somewhat tattered and coffee stained and well thumbed. Highly recommended

Indispensible, 09 Sep 2008
This is THE book for veterinary medicine. You'll never have it far from you when studying. There's a newer version now. See no difference really except for a few pictures, and it is more cumbersome. Studying side by side with a friend, we've yet to find an entry in one that is not in the other.
This is my top rated book so far. I love it.



What a must have!!, 23 Feb 2004
I've had this dictionary since it was first published, and it has been WELL worth it and has been invaluable to me right through my biology a-levels to now being in my second year of a degree in animal management, it is never far from my side when I'm doing an assignment, and without it I'm lost, whether its to find proper definitions for a quote or to check something it is just sooo handy, both for my course and as a serious pet owner, trying to decipher some of the technical terms used in articles and textbooks. Overall, I can't fault it, and I can't see myself ever wanting to part with my copy!

Most Used Book, 27 May 2003
I am studying for a degree in Equine Science and I use this book all the time. It is the most used on my bookshelf for my assignments and I have also found it useful for refering to when revising or need something explained. It offers definitions which are detailed but easily understood. Definately worth its money

Excellent!!, 30 Oct 2001
Not only is this book useful as a dictionary, is also a great reference for quick additional pieces of information. I find myself refering to it often while I am doing a piece of work. One of the most useful Veterinary books I have purchased so far!

A must., 22 Sep 2008
Purchased this book a while back. I was thrilled to bits when i got this book, it is such an easy read. It is well put together and makes the subject of anatomy less daunting and easier to learn. Has lots of diagrams and is well referenced.

GREAT FOR BEGGINERS IN VET SCIENCE, 05 Aug 2007
Consise, well oranised and very informative, can be read little by little and used as reference as has simple english but thorough explanations. Ideal for those starting out in vet science, nursing, assistant etc..

Helpful starting point for BMAT candidates, 03 Oct 2005
This book contains tips and advice on what to expect on the BMAT test and what kind of skills you need to develop to do well. The majority of the book is taken up by a worked BMAT style paper. Each question has a commentary about different ways of approach and the techniques that could save you time. It also has copies of the answer sheet you'll have to fill in on the day of the test and the marking scheme. Reading this book alone would not be a complete preparation for the test - unless you ace all the questions - and further study texts are recommended inside. If you're not sure whether to buy it or not, try the online BMAT test first, if you need further explanation of what the test involves this is useful. But if that satistisfies your curiousity, use the time to swot up on your science skills or spend the money on reasoning books instead.
It only took me about 3 hours to go through this book but it did help me evaluate the skills I need to develop.

Basic information for beginners but some stuffing and vague about important detail in parts, 09 Aug 2008
A standard work often provided in starter kits and it covers the basics in a simple easy to read fashion. Katie Thear is an experienced keeper and she includes some useful tips she's picked up from her own experiences. However I find the subject poorly researched and the information rather sketchy in places and lacking in consistency. It's rather like she has written it just from her own knowledge and experiences only. Some areas she dwells on in uneccessary detail for beginners needs while others which need a more detailed explaination are just skimmed over. There's also some uneccessary padding with brief chapters on showing and breeding which aren't of much interest to beginners and don't contain enough detail to enable anyone to get involved anyway. She has written a book on incubation so I suspect if you want to expand your hobby to breeding you can read that. The chapter on breeds is probably more comprehensive than beginners need and covers far more breeds than is really neccessary. If you are going to cover breeds their suitability for beginners should be at least be discussed but it reads a bit like a indiscriminating ragbag list of breeds she has come across with each breed being described in an inconsistent manner. It only gives a passing coverage to raising birds for the table and really is aimed at keeping layers. The index is just attrocius making it useless as a quick reference. Having said all this it does contain some sound advice for beginners from an experienced keeper though it falls well short of a decent reference book.

Good info but few colour pics, 17 Jul 2008
This book has a fair amount of good information but disapointingly it has mostly black and white pictures - which seems very old fashioned these days. It has a large section on purebreeds which I think could've been reduced in order to make way for more of the useful information on care and/or health.

Heritage breeds not mentioned, 23 May 2008
This book is okay and gives a good amount of information. However, it would have been good to mention that there are so-called heritage chicken in most countries. These chicken breeds are endangered and many countries have special programs of conserving them. It is, of course, nice to have dozens of fancy chicken breeds to choose from but it would be a good thing to remind people that own, national, culturally and historically important heritage breeds should always be the priority. Also, those are the chicken breeds that are most accustomed to local climate. For example, in Scandinavian area, there are many breeds that survive in harsh conditions and like to go out even in the snow. It is of course understandable that a small book cannot review all the breeds in the world. However, just a small note of the existence of heritage breeds would encourage people to search for more information on the topic. Other than that the book is okay and I really like the general tone of promoting self-sufficient lifestyle.

Great starter book, 17 Oct 2007
Very helpful book if you're thinking of keeping chooks in your back garden, all basic information you'll need, I found though that a lot of space was given over to the different breeds which could have been used for more details on looking after chickens, but would recommend it to anyone.

A great book & British too!, 24 Aug 2007
There are a lot of great books out there for beginners, but most of them are American, so the resources pages are not helpful to those of us starting out in the UK.

This book is published by Broad Leys, who are a small independent British publishers specialising in books for smallholders, homesteaders, poultry keepers and organic gardeners.

Exactly what I was looking for!

Essential Haematology - my review, 15 Jan 2007
An extraordinarily comprehensive textbook covering all aspects of Haematology, brought to life by fantastic use of full colour illustrations, diagrams and photographs. Since a thorough knowledge of Haematology is the backbone of medical diagnosis, this book is definitely to be recommended to all medical students...and beyond!

Lots of detail but a useful reference!, 22 Dec 2006
Haematology is an under-taught area of the undergraduate medical curriculum not clearly sitting in any of the general fields which as medical students we are exposed to.

This book is really well illustrated with some very insightful microscopy slides with good text to back it up and explain the material. This is in some contrast to the competition out there.

On the negative side however, there is more detail than the undergraduate needs, but this is admitted in the preface and blue lines indicate the 'extension material' which is necessary for 'honours students'!

I've always had problems with understanding haematological malignancies and this book has proven very helpful in this regard. It's a useful reference which can go a long way to addressing the gap between what is taught and what is expected! Whether you're a medical student or junior doctor this is a great book.


Essential Haematology, 07 Dec 2006
Essential Haematology is an excellent core text. Filled with coloured diagrams, radiographs, and clinical pictures the text is beautifully illustrated through out. The book is laid out in an easy to understand way and is comprehensively and concisely written covering the basic medical sciences of haematological disorders, Clinical featres, Diagnostic Tests and Management of various conditions. This book is useful to not only medical students and nurses but also Junior doctors as well.

Basic Reading, 19 Jun 2004
Currently working in Haematology , I felt that this text sat out of place with me - it was too bulky to have sitting around in a pocket or Junior Doctors office desk , and also more basic than the excellent Oxford Handbook - but it was made redundant at home by the availability of Postgraduate Haematology and the invaluable source of information available on the internet . It is comprehensive enough for medical students , but I felt that further depth would be useful - having heard some questions that students have asked .
In terms of layout and presentation , though , it is very pleasing on the eye , and deserves to not be underestimated as a starter text .

Essential reading for your studies in haematology, 27 Jun 2002
This book is a comprehensive text covering all aspects of haematology for both under- and postgraduate students. Covering all the major topics including genetics, classification, clinical aspect and staging and treatment, it can be used at all stages of your undergraduate training. Easy to read and highly informative it is divided up into manageable chapters with haematological malignancies also covered. It uses numerous photographs to illustrate clinical features and references at the end of each chapter provide an excellent basis for further reading. Overall an essential text for both students and doctors to have on their shelves!

Brand new 4th edition, 28 Mar 2007
This is the new textbook for student VN's the third edition has been replaced to coincide with the new syllabus for Veterinary nursing by the RCVS.
The BSAVA Textbook of Veterinary Nursing, 4th edition has been thoroughly revised to meet the needs of today's veterinary nursing students and will also remain a favourite refresher resource for qualified VNs. While maintaining the high standards set by previous editions of Veterinary Nursing, it incorporates the new Veterinary Occupational Standards and expert knowledge. New topics include Nursing Models and complementary therapies. For ease of reference, the 4th Edition has been re-organised, grouping chapters in a more logical way. The book has been expanded, with new illustrations and the addition of colour to assist the student. It remains the core textbook, with essential information to enable Veterinary Nurses to deliver effective veterinary nursing care.



Best Basic Pig Book for Small Scale Pigkeeping, 05 Aug 2008
I've read at least 10 pig books in the past couple of years, but this gets my vote as the best one for the small-scale pig keeper. Covers everything you need to know (including what to do if you have to raise piglets without the mother's help, something a surprising number of books ignore) without going into too much mind-boggling detail. There are a lot of great pig books out there, but most of them are aimed at pig farms. This is more geared towards the smallholder, pet pig owner or hobbyist. And isn't the pig on the front cover just great?!!!

A Worthwhile buy, 19 Nov 2007
If you're new to pig keeping this is a good book to start with, very good sound advice offered which will help you through those first nerve wracking weeks of pig keeping. Mine is somewhat tattered and coffee stained and well thumbed. Highly recommended

Indispensible, 09 Sep 2008
This is THE book for veterinary medicine. You'll never have it far from you when studying. There's a newer version now. See no difference really except for a few pictures, and it is more cumbersome. Studying side by side with a friend, we've yet to find an entry in one that is not in the other.
This is my top rated book so far. I love it.



What a must have!!, 23 Feb 2004
I've had this dictionary since it was first published, and it has been WELL worth it and has been invaluable to me right through my biology a-levels to now being in my second year of a degree in animal management, it is never far from my side when I'm doing an assignment, and without it I'm lost, whether its to find proper definitions for a quote or to check something it is just sooo handy, both for my course and as a serious pet owner, trying to decipher some of the technical terms used in articles and textbooks. Overall, I can't fault it, and I can't see myself ever wanting to part with my copy!

Most Used Book, 27 May 2003
I am studying for a degree in Equine Science and I use this book all the time. It is the most used on my bookshelf for my assignments and I have also found it useful for refering to when revising or need something explained. It offers definitions which are detailed but easily understood. Definately worth its money

Excellent!!, 30 Oct 2001
Not only is this book useful as a dictionary, is also a great reference for quick additional pieces of information. I find myself refering to it often while I am doing a piece of work. One of the most useful Veterinary books I have purchased so far!

A must., 22 Sep 2008
Purchased this book a while back. I was thrilled to bits when i got this book, it is such an easy read. It is well put together and makes the subject of anatomy less daunting and easier to learn. Has lots of diagrams and is well referenced.

GREAT FOR BEGGINERS IN VET SCIENCE, 05 Aug 2007
Consise, well oranised and very informative, can be read little by little and used as reference as has simple english but thorough explanations. Ideal for those starting out in vet science, nursing, assistant etc..

absolutly fantantastic, 27 Dec 2005
If you are into the natural horsemanship then you will like this as much as i did, this was very helpful as i have a nervous 2 year old which i am looking to back in the near future and as i didnt want to pay a fortune for someone to back him, this really gave me some great ideas on how to do this successfully and carrying out some of his ideas we are both loving every minute. It also has some really usefull tips on loading that difficult horse.

An invaluable appraoch to the starting of all young horses, 07 Feb 2001
This approach to the 'starting' of young horses or the restarting of older ones, is absolutely wonderful and a 'must' for anyone interested in starting or even handling horses, in a more humane manner than perhaps has been used before. Instead of the old fashioned way of demanding results and compliance with all our demands, it takes the human into the realm of the horse. By watching the horses' body language and using the language of equinus, so much more can be achieved without bullying the horse or trying to force him into anything he does not want to achieve. By following Richard's advice, the foal, the yearling, the two year old or any horse can be started gently and with kindness and the results are so much more rewarding. Trust between human and horse builds up at each stage and a greater understanding of your horse quickly develops. Reading the book was like opening a whole new chapter on my life with horses. Actually putting Richard's new approach into practice is the most rewarding thing I have ever done with a horse. Both my foal and my two year old are responding to this way of being started and the trust and relationship the horses have with all my family is tremendous. By meeting them half way and trying to understand why they are behaving in a certain manner, makes handling them much easier and so much more pleasurable. IT REALLY DOES WORK. Misunderstandings between the horse and the human are much less likely to occur by adopting Richard's approach, as you learn to look at why the horse is behaving in a certain manner and not punishing him for doing so. I would reccommend this book to anyone with a horse or pony, who just would like to have a greater insight in the workings of a horse's mind or be able to watch their animals and at least have a better comprehension of what their friends are really trying to tell them. It may be that they are telling you they consider you a friend too.

Helpful starting point for BMAT candidates, 03 Oct 2005
This book contains tips and advice on what to expect on the BMAT test and what kind of skills you need to develop to do well. The majority of the book is taken up by a worked BMAT style paper. Each question has a commentary about different ways of approach and the techniques that could save you time. It also has copies of the answer sheet you'll have to fill in on the day of the test and the marking scheme. Reading this book alone would not be a complete preparation for the test - unless you ace all the questions - and further study texts are recommended inside. If you're not sure whether to buy it or not, try the online BMAT test first, if you need further explanation of what the test involves this is useful. But if that satistisfies your curiousity, use the time to swot up on your science skills or spend the money on reasoning books instead.
It only took me about 3 hours to go through this book but it did help me evaluate the skills I need to develop.

Basic information for beginners but some stuffing and vague about important detail in parts, 09 Aug 2008
A standard work often provided in starter kits and it covers the basics in a simple easy to read fashion. Katie Thear is an experienced keeper and she includes some useful tips she's picked up from her own experiences. However I find the subject poorly researched and the information rather sketchy in places and lacking in consistency. It's rather like she has written it just from her own knowledge and experiences only. Some areas she dwells on in uneccessary detail for beginners needs while others which need a more detailed explaination are just skimmed over. There's also some uneccessary padding with brief chapters on showing and breeding which aren't of much interest to beginners and don't contain enough detail to enable anyone to get involved anyway. She has written a book on incubation so I suspect if you want to expand your hobby to breeding you can read that. The chapter on breeds is probably more comprehensive than beginners need and covers far more breeds than is really neccessary. If you are going to cover breeds their suitability for beginners should be at least be discussed but it reads a bit like a indiscriminating ragbag list of breeds she has come across with each breed being described in an inconsistent manner. It only gives a passing coverage to raising birds for the table and really is aimed at keeping layers. The index is just attrocius making it useless as a quick reference. Having said all this it does contain some sound advice for beginners from an experienced keeper though it falls well short of a decent reference book.

Good info but few colour pics, 17 Jul 2008
This book has a fair amount of good information but disapointingly it has mostly black and white pictures - which seems very old fashioned these days. It has a large section on purebreeds which I think could've been reduced in order to make way for more of the useful information on care and/or health.

Heritage breeds not mentioned, 23 May 2008
This book is okay and gives a good amount of information. However, it would have been good to mention that there are so-called heritage chicken in most countries. These chicken breeds are endangered and many countries have special programs of conserving them. It is, of course, nice to have dozens of fancy chicken breeds to choose from but it would be a good thing to remind people that own, national, culturally and historically important heritage breeds should always be the priority. Also, those are the chicken breeds that are most accustomed to local climate. For example, in Scandinavian area, there are many breeds that survive in harsh conditions and like to go out even in the snow. It is of course understandable that a small book cannot review all the breeds in the world. However, just a small note of the existence of heritage breeds would encourage people to search for more information on the topic. Other than that the book is okay and I really like the general tone of promoting self-sufficient lifestyle.

Great starter book, 17 Oct 2007
Very helpful book if you're thinking of keeping chooks in your back garden, all basic information you'll need, I found though that a lot of space was given over to the different breeds which could have been used for more details on looking after chickens, but would recommend it to anyone.

A great book & British too!, 24 Aug 2007
There are a lot of great books out there for beginners, but most of them are American, so the resources pages are not helpful to those of us starting out in the UK.

This book is published by Broad Leys, who are a small independent British publishers specialising in books for smallholders, homesteaders, poultry keepers and organic gardeners.

Exactly what I was looking for!

Essential Haematology - my review, 15 Jan 2007
An extraordinarily comprehensive textbook covering all aspects of Haematology, brought to life by fantastic use of full colour illustrations, diagrams and photographs. Since a thorough knowledge of Haematology is the backbone of medical diagnosis, this book is definitely to be recommended to all medical students...and beyond!

Lots of detail but a useful reference!, 22 Dec 2006
Haematology is an under-taught area of the undergraduate medical curriculum not clearly sitting in any of the general fields which as medical students we are exposed to.

This book is really well illustrated with some very insightful microscopy slides with good text to back it up and explain the material. This is in some contrast to the competition out there.

On the negative side however, there is more detail than the undergraduate needs, but this is admitted in the preface and blue lines indicate the 'extension material' which is necessary for 'honours students'!

I've always had problems with understanding haematological malignancies and this book has proven very helpful in this regard. It's a useful reference which can go a long way to addressing the gap between what is taught and what is expected! Whether you're a medical student or junior doctor this is a great book.


Essential Haematology, 07 Dec 2006
Essential Haematology is an excellent core text. Filled with coloured diagrams, radiographs, and clinical pictures the text is beautifully illustrated through out. The book is laid out in an easy to understand way and is comprehensively and concisely written covering the basic medical sciences of haematological disorders, Clinical featres, Diagnostic Tests and Management of various conditions. This book is useful to not only medical students and nurses but also Junior doctors as well.

Basic Reading, 19 Jun 2004
Currently working in Haematology , I felt that this text sat out of place with me - it was too bulky to have sitting around in a pocket or Junior Doctors office desk , and also more basic than the excellent Oxford Handbook - but it was made redundant at home by the availability of Postgraduate Haematology and the invaluable source of information available on the internet . It is comprehensive enough for medical students , but I felt that further depth would be useful - having heard some questions that students have asked .
In terms of layout and presentation , though , it is very pleasing on the eye , and deserves to not be underestimated as a starter text .

Essential reading for your studies in haematology, 27 Jun 2002
This book is a comprehensive text covering all aspects of haematology for both under- and postgraduate students. Covering all the major topics including genetics, classification, clinical aspect and staging and treatment, it can be used at all stages of your undergraduate training. Easy to read and highly informative it is divided up into manageable chapters with haematological malignancies also covered. It uses numerous photographs to illustrate clinical features and references at the end of each chapter provide an excellent basis for further reading. Overall an essential text for both students and doctors to have on their shelves!

Brand new 4th edition, 28 Mar 2007
This is the new textbook for student VN's the third edition has been replaced to coincide with the new syllabus for Veterinary nursing by the RCVS.
The BSAVA Textbook of Veterinary Nursing, 4th edition has been thoroughly revised to meet the needs of today's veterinary nursing students and will also remain a favourite refresher resource for qualified VNs. While maintaining the high standards set by previous editions of Veterinary Nursing, it incorporates the new Veterinary Occupational Standards and expert knowledge. New topics include Nursing Models and complementary therapies. For ease of reference, the 4th Edition has been re-organised, grouping chapters in a more logical way. The book has been expanded, with new illustrations and the addition of colour to assist the student. It remains the core textbook, with essential information to enable Veterinary Nurses to deliver effective veterinary nursing care.



Best Basic Pig Book for Small Scale Pigkeeping, 05 Aug 2008
I've read at least 10 pig books in the past couple of years, but this gets my vote as the best one for the small-scale pig keeper. Covers everything you need to know (including what to do if you have to raise piglets without the mother's help, something a surprising number of books ignore) without going into too much mind-boggling detail. There are a lot of great pig books out there, but most of them are aimed at pig farms. This is more geared towards the smallholder, pet pig owner or hobbyist. And isn't the pig on the front cover just great?!!!

A Worthwhile buy, 19 Nov 2007
If you're new to pig keeping this is a good book to start with, very good sound advice offered which will help you through those first nerve wracking weeks of pig keeping. Mine is somewhat tattered and coffee stained and well thumbed. Highly recommended

Indispensible, 09 Sep 2008
This is THE book for veterinary medicine. You'll never have it far from you when studying. There's a newer version now. See no difference really except for a few pictures, and it is more cumbersome. Studying side by side with a friend, we've yet to find an entry in one that is not in the other.
This is my top rated book so far. I love it.



What a must have!!, 23 Feb 2004
I've had this dictionary since it was first published, and it has been WELL worth it and has been invaluable to me right through my biology a-levels to now being in my second year of a degree in animal management, it is never far from my side when I'm doing an assignment, and without it I'm lost, whether its to find proper definitions for a quote or to check something it is just sooo handy, both for my course and as a serious pet owner, trying to decipher some of the technical terms used in articles and textbooks. Overall, I can't fault it, and I can't see myself ever wanting to part with my copy!

Most Used Book, 27 May 2003
I am studying for a degree in Equine Science and I use this book all the time. It is the most used on my bookshelf for my assignments and I have also found it useful for refering to when revising or need something explained. It offers definitions which are detailed but easily understood. Definately worth its money

Excellent!!, 30 Oct 2001
Not only is this book useful as a dictionary, is also a great reference for quick additional pieces of information. I find myself refering to it often while I am doing a piece of work. One of the most useful Veterinary books I have purchased so far!

A must., 22 Sep 2008
Purchased this book a while back. I was thrilled to bits when i got this book, it is such an easy read. It is well put together and makes the subject of anatomy less daunting and easier to learn. Has lots of diagrams and is well referenced.

GREAT FOR BEGGINERS IN VET SCIENCE, 05 Aug 2007
Consise, well oranised and very informative, can be read little by little and used as reference as has simple english but thorough explanations. Ideal for those starting out in vet science, nursing, assistant etc..

absolutly fantantastic, 27 Dec 2005
If you are into the natural horsemanship then you will like this as much as i did, this was very helpful as i have a nervous 2 year old which i am looking to back in the near future and as i didnt want to pay a fortune for someone to back him, this really gave me some great ideas on how to do this successfully and carrying out some of his ideas we are both loving every minute. It also has some really usefull tips on loading that difficult horse.

An invaluable appraoch to the starting of all young horses, 07 Feb 2001
This approach to the 'starting' of young horses or the restarting of older ones, is absolutely wonderful and a 'must' for anyone interested in starting or even handling horses, in a more humane manner than perhaps has been used before. Instead of the old fashioned way of demanding results and compliance with all our demands, it takes the human into the realm of the horse. By watching the horses' body language and using the language of equinus, so much more can be achieved without bullying the horse or trying to force him into anything he does not want to achieve. By following Richard's advice, the foal, the yearling, the two year old or any horse can be started gently and with kindness and the results are so much more rewarding. Trust between human and horse builds up at each stage and a greater understanding of your horse quickly develops. Reading the book was like opening a whole new chapter on my life with horses. Actually putting Richard's new approach into practice is the most rewarding thing I have ever done with a horse. Both my foal and my two year old are responding to this way of being started and the trust and relationship the horses have with all my family is tremendous. By meeting them half way and trying to understand why they are behaving in a certain manner, makes handling them much easier and so much more pleasurable. IT REALLY DOES WORK. Misunderstandings between the horse and the human are much less likely to occur by adopting Richard's approach, as you learn to look at why the horse is behaving in a certain manner and not punishing him for doing so. I would reccommend this book to anyone with a horse or