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 Customer Reviews
Every child should own it., 05 Oct 2008
I bought this book for all 3 of my children, my 4 God children and my children's school. It is beautifully illustrated and each of the human rights are worded so that children can understand them. It is the sort of book that you hope that if your children become parents, they will pass their copy onto their children. Some people have a family bible; I believe that this is as important if not more so.
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Customer Reviews
Every child should own it., 05 Oct 2008
I bought this book for all 3 of my children, my 4 God children and my children's school. It is beautifully illustrated and each of the human rights are worded so that children can understand them. It is the sort of book that you hope that if your children become parents, they will pass their copy onto their children. Some people have a family bible; I believe that this is as important if not more so.
Really interesting book, 07 Oct 2008
This book is brilliant! It uses maps of the world to display data by distorting the physical size of countries according to the relevant data - the result is a very visual feel for the data - much more powerful than figures or words could be. Every page has a global map displaying a different set of data and the range of data is huge, spanning from spread of diseases to energy use, from prevalence of national disasters to effectiveness of legal systems.
The book is pretty large and an ideal coffee table read. You don't need to be particularly analytical to get a lot from it - just need to be interested in the world. A fantastic new way of looking at the world.
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Customer Reviews
Every child should own it., 05 Oct 2008
I bought this book for all 3 of my children, my 4 God children and my children's school. It is beautifully illustrated and each of the human rights are worded so that children can understand them. It is the sort of book that you hope that if your children become parents, they will pass their copy onto their children. Some people have a family bible; I believe that this is as important if not more so.
Really interesting book, 07 Oct 2008
This book is brilliant! It uses maps of the world to display data by distorting the physical size of countries according to the relevant data - the result is a very visual feel for the data - much more powerful than figures or words could be. Every page has a global map displaying a different set of data and the range of data is huge, spanning from spread of diseases to energy use, from prevalence of national disasters to effectiveness of legal systems.
The book is pretty large and an ideal coffee table read. You don't need to be particularly analytical to get a lot from it - just need to be interested in the world. A fantastic new way of looking at the world.
Just the ticket, 17 Jul 2008
I've been using my copy of Plant Names Simplified since I was at horticultural college in 1994. It may not be the most comprehensive book but its main aim is to guide you on pronunciation, rather than to teach you latin (as some of the other reviews here infer). Nevertheless, it also tells you what the latin means (ie Convolvulus cnerorum = from convolvo, to entwine; from Greek kneoron, meaning obscure).
I've found it invaluable over the years. It's A5-sized and paperback, so is small enough to be taken on garden visits. Highly recommended.
A bit short of the mark, 22 Jun 2008
I thought this was the only book of its kind until I found out about sterns. This book has proved useful but also frustrating when half the words you look up aren't in it. Sterns Book is a much wiser buy if you really want a good reference.
A good beginners book, 13 Apr 2006
This a good beginners book and an excellent companion, but one can soon exhaust it. To go further and for serious horticulturalists then Botanical Latin by William T. Stearn [ISBN: 0881926272] is far more rewarding and if you can afford the extra expense and time, I would choose this.
Excellent little book, 08 Jan 2005
Worth having, and helps you to solve those arguments by telling you how to pronouce names too.
No Ranger should be without it, 10 Jul 2001
If you work in countryside recreation then this book is a must. It gives you knowledge of plants that will make the public think you are an expert. Just drop a few in a guided walk and see their faces.
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Customer Reviews
Every child should own it., 05 Oct 2008
I bought this book for all 3 of my children, my 4 God children and my children's school. It is beautifully illustrated and each of the human rights are worded so that children can understand them. It is the sort of book that you hope that if your children become parents, they will pass their copy onto their children. Some people have a family bible; I believe that this is as important if not more so.
Really interesting book, 07 Oct 2008
This book is brilliant! It uses maps of the world to display data by distorting the physical size of countries according to the relevant data - the result is a very visual feel for the data - much more powerful than figures or words could be. Every page has a global map displaying a different set of data and the range of data is huge, spanning from spread of diseases to energy use, from prevalence of national disasters to effectiveness of legal systems.
The book is pretty large and an ideal coffee table read. You don't need to be particularly analytical to get a lot from it - just need to be interested in the world. A fantastic new way of looking at the world.
Just the ticket, 17 Jul 2008
I've been using my copy of Plant Names Simplified since I was at horticultural college in 1994. It may not be the most comprehensive book but its main aim is to guide you on pronunciation, rather than to teach you latin (as some of the other reviews here infer). Nevertheless, it also tells you what the latin means (ie Convolvulus cnerorum = from convolvo, to entwine; from Greek kneoron, meaning obscure).
I've found it invaluable over the years. It's A5-sized and paperback, so is small enough to be taken on garden visits. Highly recommended.
A bit short of the mark, 22 Jun 2008
I thought this was the only book of its kind until I found out about sterns. This book has proved useful but also frustrating when half the words you look up aren't in it. Sterns Book is a much wiser buy if you really want a good reference.
A good beginners book, 13 Apr 2006
This a good beginners book and an excellent companion, but one can soon exhaust it. To go further and for serious horticulturalists then Botanical Latin by William T. Stearn [ISBN: 0881926272] is far more rewarding and if you can afford the extra expense and time, I would choose this.
Excellent little book, 08 Jan 2005
Worth having, and helps you to solve those arguments by telling you how to pronouce names too.
No Ranger should be without it, 10 Jul 2001
If you work in countryside recreation then this book is a must. It gives you knowledge of plants that will make the public think you are an expert. Just drop a few in a guided walk and see their faces.
An unusual and outstanding guide, 05 Nov 2008
I received a copy of this book for my birthday this year, and was immediately drawn towards the material on algebra with which I was most familiar. The most striking thing about the book as a whole, both in the bits I know well, and the bits I don't know much about, is the way in which it combines large portions of accessible text with substantial mathematical content - it is the lack of actual serious content which frustrates me most about popular books about maths (Fermat's Last Theorem and the Riemann Hypothesis have received the popular treatment with limited content). But in this companion there are clues to enable an enthusiast to engage with the material.
It is right to say, as the introduction does, that there is material in this book which will require some knowledge beyond what you might learn at school. But do not let that put you off (it is no more daunting than the physical size of the book, which mirrors only its extensive coverage). For the genius of this companion is in the way that it engages with real mathematics and how it is actually done by real mathematicians. It is not simply a presentation of particular subject matter (as in a text book) nor is it an encyclopedia of mathematics, for it seeks to convey an understanding of the nature and importance of pure mathematics, rather than simply definitions of the component parts - and through disciplined editing and clear exposition it sets a standard which will not easily be matched.
There is a huge amount which will challenge and excite a good A-level student. My one observation is that the suggested further reading is sometimes a great deal more demanding than the component articles of the Companion (which is partly a reflection of just how good these articles are) - but more consistency, or a scheme for marking references accessible at or just beyond A-level is the only improvement I could think of.
If this book had been in my school library when I was 17 ... well every school with a 6th form should have one. And anyone with a true interest in mathematics should have it to browse (and will want to read it).
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Customer Reviews
Every child should own it., 05 Oct 2008
I bought this book for all 3 of my children, my 4 God children and my children's school. It is beautifully illustrated and each of the human rights are worded so that children can understand them. It is the sort of book that you hope that if your children become parents, they will pass their copy onto their children. Some people have a family bible; I believe that this is as important if not more so.
Really interesting book, 07 Oct 2008
This book is brilliant! It uses maps of the world to display data by distorting the physical size of countries according to the relevant data - the result is a very visual feel for the data - much more powerful than figures or words could be. Every page has a global map displaying a different set of data and the range of data is huge, spanning from spread of diseases to energy use, from prevalence of national disasters to effectiveness of legal systems.
The book is pretty large and an ideal coffee table read. You don't need to be particularly analytical to get a lot from it - just need to be interested in the world. A fantastic new way of looking at the world.
Just the ticket, 17 Jul 2008
I've been using my copy of Plant Names Simplified since I was at horticultural college in 1994. It may not be the most comprehensive book but its main aim is to guide you on pronunciation, rather than to teach you latin (as some of the other reviews here infer). Nevertheless, it also tells you what the latin means (ie Convolvulus cnerorum = from convolvo, to entwine; from Greek kneoron, meaning obscure).
I've found it invaluable over the years. It's A5-sized and paperback, so is small enough to be taken on garden visits. Highly recommended.
A bit short of the mark, 22 Jun 2008
I thought this was the only book of its kind until I found out about sterns. This book has proved useful but also frustrating when half the words you look up aren't in it. Sterns Book is a much wiser buy if you really want a good reference.
A good beginners book, 13 Apr 2006
This a good beginners book and an excellent companion, but one can soon exhaust it. To go further and for serious horticulturalists then Botanical Latin by William T. Stearn [ISBN: 0881926272] is far more rewarding and if you can afford the extra expense and time, I would choose this.
Excellent little book, 08 Jan 2005
Worth having, and helps you to solve those arguments by telling you how to pronouce names too.
No Ranger should be without it, 10 Jul 2001
If you work in countryside recreation then this book is a must. It gives you knowledge of plants that will make the public think you are an expert. Just drop a few in a guided walk and see their faces.
An unusual and outstanding guide, 05 Nov 2008
I received a copy of this book for my birthday this year, and was immediately drawn towards the material on algebra with which I was most familiar. The most striking thing about the book as a whole, both in the bits I know well, and the bits I don't know much about, is the way in which it combines large portions of accessible text with substantial mathematical content - it is the lack of actual serious content which frustrates me most about popular books about maths (Fermat's Last Theorem and the Riemann Hypothesis have received the popular treatment with limited content). But in this companion there are clues to enable an enthusiast to engage with the material.
It is right to say, as the introduction does, that there is material in this book which will require some knowledge beyond what you might learn at school. But do not let that put you off (it is no more daunting than the physical size of the book, which mirrors only its extensive coverage). For the genius of this companion is in the way that it engages with real mathematics and how it is actually done by real mathematicians. It is not simply a presentation of particular subject matter (as in a text book) nor is it an encyclopedia of mathematics, for it seeks to convey an understanding of the nature and importance of pure mathematics, rather than simply definitions of the component parts - and through disciplined editing and clear exposition it sets a standard which will not easily be matched.
There is a huge amount which will challenge and excite a good A-level student. My one observation is that the suggested further reading is sometimes a great deal more demanding than the component articles of the Companion (which is partly a reflection of just how good these articles are) - but more consistency, or a scheme for marking references accessible at or just beyond A-level is the only improvement I could think of.
If this book had been in my school library when I was 17 ... well every school with a 6th form should have one. And anyone with a true interest in mathematics should have it to browse (and will want to read it).
Close but no cigar!, 15 Aug 2008
I'm a huge fan of Francis Rose, and the last wildflower key is a classic that I still use on a daily basis. This revised edition is very clear and concise; the keys are much improved from the last edition, the plastic cover limits water damage in the field and the regional AWI list from Keith Kirby in the back of the book is invaluable.
However, there are two points that make this book a 4 star rather than a 5 star book: Firstly the book to slightly too big for a field guild and is a bit too heavy. Secondly, sadly this revised edition still contains errors with some outdated Latin names; in particular some of the orchid species names are outdated, despite having changed several years before this book was printed, hmm...
Despite these issues it is still a wonderful book, so don't let me put you off!
Excellent revision, 09 Jul 2008
I'm sorry, Tony in Edinburgh, but if this book is bigger than the Edinburgh 'phone book; then there can't be too many people who have 'phones!! I have just purchased a copy of the "keys" and put it straight into my backpack. I have been using the original version for many years as a professional botanist (in fact it was my "Bible") and it was literally falling apart. This new version is even easier to use than the last, I would recommend it to anybody interested in British flora.
Too big for a field guide, 05 Nov 2007
I hate to spoil the love-in, but at 900g (2lb) this new edition is simply too heavy to be a practical field guide. This book is thicker than the Edinburgh telephone directory and consequently is highly unlikely to find its way into my pocket or backpack when I am off out. This is a pity because there the book has many good features; greater brevity would have made it a hands-down winner. As it is, the old edition is a more realistic prospect if you want pictures, Stace if you don't.
The best key plus picture guide around?, 02 Jul 2007
I got this book as my first `proper' field guide to British plants. The key is very good, and the well-drawn pictures enable beginners to check their identification. I started using this book with only rudimentary botanical skill, and quickly go to the point where I am confident to identify any British plant. The skills I learned enabled my to move onto the `Excursion Flora', and I can now identify all the grasses too!
All in all, an excellent pocket `flora'-highly recommended.
A review from a complete beginner, 27 May 2007
The original edition of this book was released when I was only a 1 year-old. As a young girl, growing up near to a forest, surrouded by lovely countryside, I remember taking a passing interest in the wildlife and the flowers. For a time, this interest left me, and I began to forget all the knowledge my mum had passed onto me about the wild plants. Recently, I have longed to get this knowledge back, and to expand on it. Finding this book on Amazon, I felt I could not pass it by.
Although it is not meant as a handy field book - the sheer size of it prevents this - this is a great book both for the beginner (like me) and for those who already have a fair bit of knowledge.
The book is organised well, with lovely drawings of the plants. There is also a good introduction to the book, followed by lots of information about how to use the book, the equipment you may want to get, a guide on flower structure, where to find out more, along with other titbits of info.
For the true beginner, there is also a list of abbreviations, as well as an illustrated glossary at the back of the book.
The general key to plant families is a valuable asset to this book; beginners could not be without it.
This is an excellent edition, of what I understand to be a classic text on wild flowers and their identification. I am very pleased with my choice in beginning with this text to guide me on discovering more about wild flowers, trees and shrubs. Although I have a long way to go, I think this will help me immensely; now, as a beginner, I would not be without it.
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Customer Reviews
Every child should own it., 05 Oct 2008
I bought this book for all 3 of my children, my 4 God children and my children's school. It is beautifully illustrated and each of the human rights are worded so that children can understand them. It is the sort of book that you hope that if your children become parents, they will pass their copy onto their children. Some people have a family bible; I believe that this is as important if not more so.
Really interesting book, 07 Oct 2008
This book is brilliant! It uses maps of the world to display data by distorting the physical size of countries according to the relevant data - the result is a very visual feel for the data - much more powerful than figures or words could be. Every page has a global map displaying a different set of data and the range of data is huge, spanning from spread of diseases to energy use, from prevalence of national disasters to effectiveness of legal systems.
The book is pretty large and an ideal coffee table read. You don't need to be particularly analytical to get a lot from it - just need to be interested in the world. A fantastic new way of looking at the world.
Just the ticket, 17 Jul 2008
I've been using my copy of Plant Names Simplified since I was at horticultural college in 1994. It may not be the most comprehensive book but its main aim is to guide you on pronunciation, rather than to teach you latin (as some of the other reviews here infer). Nevertheless, it also tells you what the latin means (ie Convolvulus cnerorum = from convolvo, to entwine; from Greek kneoron, meaning obscure).
I've found it invaluable over the years. It's A5-sized and paperback, so is small enough to be taken on garden visits. Highly recommended.
A bit short of the mark, 22 Jun 2008
I thought this was the only book of its kind until I found out about sterns. This book has proved useful but also frustrating when half the words you look up aren't in it. Sterns Book is a much wiser buy if you really want a good reference.
A good beginners book, 13 Apr 2006
This a good beginners book and an excellent companion, but one can soon exhaust it. To go further and for serious horticulturalists then Botanical Latin by William T. Stearn [ISBN: 0881926272] is far more rewarding and if you can afford the extra expense and time, I would choose this.
Excellent little book, 08 Jan 2005
Worth having, and helps you to solve those arguments by telling you how to pronouce names too.
No Ranger should be without it, 10 Jul 2001
If you work in countryside recreation then this book is a must. It gives you knowledge of plants that will make the public think you are an expert. Just drop a few in a guided walk and see their faces.
An unusual and outstanding guide, 05 Nov 2008
I received a copy of this book for my birthday this year, and was immediately drawn towards the material on algebra with which I was most familiar. The most striking thing about the book as a whole, both in the bits I know well, and the bits I don't know much about, is the way in which it combines large portions of accessible text with substantial mathematical content - it is the lack of actual serious content which frustrates me most about popular books about maths (Fermat's Last Theorem and the Riemann Hypothesis have received the popular treatment with limited content). But in this companion there are clues to enable an enthusiast to engage with the material.
It is right to say, as the introduction does, that there is material in this book which will require some knowledge beyond what you might learn at school. But do not let that put you off (it is no more daunting than the physical size of the book, which mirrors only its extensive coverage). For the genius of this companion is in the way that it engages with real mathematics and how it is actually done by real mathematicians. It is not simply a presentation of particular subject matter (as in a text book) nor is it an encyclopedia of mathematics, for it seeks to convey an understanding of the nature and importance of pure mathematics, rather than simply definitions of the component parts - and through disciplined editing and clear exposition it sets a standard which will not easily be matched.
There is a huge amount which will challenge and excite a good A-level student. My one observation is that the suggested further reading is sometimes a great deal more demanding than the component articles of the Companion (which is partly a reflection of just how good these articles are) - but more consistency, or a scheme for marking references accessible at or just beyond A-level is the only improvement I could think of.
If this book had been in my school library when I was 17 ... well every school with a 6th form should have one. And anyone with a true interest in mathematics should have it to browse (and will want to read it).
Close but no cigar!, 15 Aug 2008
I'm a huge fan of Francis Rose, and the last wildflower key is a classic that I still use on a daily basis. This revised edition is very clear and concise; the keys are much improved from the last edition, the plastic cover limits water damage in the field and the regional AWI list from Keith Kirby in the back of the book is invaluable.
However, there are two points that make this book a 4 star rather than a 5 star book: Firstly the book to slightly too big for a field guild and is a bit too heavy. Secondly, sadly this revised edition still contains errors with some outdated Latin names; in particular some of the orchid species names are outdated, despite having changed several years before this book was printed, hmm...
Despite these issues it is still a wonderful book, so don't let me put you off!
Excellent revision, 09 Jul 2008
I'm sorry, Tony in Edinburgh, but if this book is bigger than the Edinburgh 'phone book; then there can't be too many people who have 'phones!! I have just purchased a copy of the "keys" and put it straight into my backpack. I have been using the original version for many years as a professional botanist (in fact it was my "Bible") and it was literally falling apart. This new version is even easier to use than the last, I would recommend it to anybody interested in British flora.
Too big for a field guide, 05 Nov 2007
I hate to spoil the love-in, but at 900g (2lb) this new edition is simply too heavy to be a practical field guide. This book is thicker than the Edinburgh telephone directory and consequently is highly unlikely to find its way into my pocket or backpack when I am off out. This is a pity because there the book has many good features; greater brevity would have made it a hands-down winner. As it is, the old edition is a more realistic prospect if you want pictures, Stace if you don't.
The best key plus picture guide around?, 02 Jul 2007
I got this book as my first `proper' field guide to British plants. The key is very good, and the well-drawn pictures enable beginners to check their identification. I started using this book with only rudimentary botanical skill, and quickly go to the point where I am confident to identify any British plant. The skills I learned enabled my to move onto the `Excursion Flora', and I can now identify all the grasses too!
All in all, an excellent pocket `flora'-highly recommended.
A review from a complete beginner, 27 May 2007
The original edition of this book was released when I was only a 1 year-old. As a young girl, growing up near to a forest, surrouded by lovely countryside, I remember taking a passing interest in the wildlife and the flowers. For a time, this interest left me, and I began to forget all the knowledge my mum had passed onto me about the wild plants. Recently, I have longed to get this knowledge back, and to expand on it. Finding this book on Amazon, I felt I could not pass it by.
Although it is not meant as a handy field book - the sheer size of it prevents this - this is a great book both for the beginner (like me) and for those who already have a fair bit of knowledge.
The book is organised well, with lovely drawings of the plants. There is also a good introduction to the book, followed by lots of information about how to use the book, the equipment you may want to get, a guide on flower structure, where to find out more, along with other titbits of info.
For the true beginner, there is also a list of abbreviations, as well as an illustrated glossary at the back of the book.
The general key to plant families is a valuable asset to this book; beginners could not be without it.
This is an excellent edition, of what I understand to be a classic text on wild flowers and their identification. I am very pleased with my choice in beginning with this text to guide me on discovering more about wild flowers, trees and shrubs. Although I have a long way to go, I think this will help me immensely; now, as a beginner, I would not be without it.
A fine book an atlas of the ocean, 17 Sep 2008
500 stunning pages full of pictures, illustrations and diagrams covering different oceans, ocean habitats, marine plants and animals, ocean geology, currents, etc. Ideal for homework, reference or just plain interest. A lovely book for the study or coffee table
Stunning Pictures, Informative Text, 26 Nov 2006
I have recently purchased this book and am impressed by the fantastic amount of information crammed into it as well as the stunning photography. About half the book is about marine life, but there are also well written and illustrated sections about the physical structure and properties of the oceans, and different ocean environments, as well as an excellent Ocean Atlas at the back. I'd thoroughly recommend it!
the best, 10 Nov 2006
I own every book in this series -- Animal, Plant, Earth, Human, and Universe -- and was perplexed why there wasn't an Ocean. When this came out, I was thrilled and nabbed it asap. As usual, the photos are stunning, and Ocean focuses on life at all scales, from microscopic plankton to whales. The multicolored crustaceans and deep-sea bioluminescents are my favorites. I think this is my favorite book in the DK series. No, wait -- Universe is. No -- Ocean. Definitely Ocean.
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Customer Reviews
Every child should own it., 05 Oct 2008
I bought this book for all 3 of my children, my 4 God children and my children's school. It is beautifully illustrated and each of the human rights are worded so that children can understand them. It is the sort of book that you hope that if your children become parents, they will pass their copy onto their children. Some people have a family bible; I believe that this is as important if not more so. Really interesting book, 07 Oct 2008
This book is brilliant! It uses maps of the world to display data by distorting the physical size of countries according to the relevant data - the result is a very visual feel for the data - much more powerful than figures or words could be. Every page has a global map displaying a different set of data and the range of data is huge, spanning from spread of diseases to energy use, from prevalence of national disasters to effectiveness of legal systems.
The book is pretty large and an ideal coffee table read. You don't need to be particularly analytical to get a lot from it - just need to be interested in the world. A fantastic new way of looking at the world. Just the ticket, 17 Jul 2008
I've been using my copy of Plant Names Simplified since I was at horticultural college in 1994. It may not be the most comprehensive book but its main aim is to guide you on pronunciation, rather than to teach you latin (as some of the other reviews here infer). Nevertheless, it also tells you what the latin means (ie Convolvulus cnerorum = from convolvo, to entwine; from Greek kneoron, meaning obscure).
I've found it invaluable over the years. It's A5-sized and paperback, so is small enough to be taken on garden visits. Highly recommended. A bit short of the mark, 22 Jun 2008
I thought this was the only book of its kind until I found out about sterns. This book has proved useful but also frustrating when half the words you look up aren't in it. Sterns Book is a much wiser buy if you really want a good reference. A good beginners book, 13 Apr 2006
This a good beginners book and an excellent companion, but one can soon exhaust it. To go further and for serious horticulturalists then Botanical Latin by William T. Stearn [ISBN: 0881926272] is far more rewarding and if you can afford the extra expense and time, I would choose this.
Excellent little book, 08 Jan 2005
Worth having, and helps you to solve those arguments by telling you how to pronouce names too. No Ranger should be without it, 10 Jul 2001
If you work in countryside recreation then this book is a must. It gives you knowledge of plants that will make the public think you are an expert. Just drop a few in a guided walk and see their faces. An unusual and outstanding guide, 05 Nov 2008
I received a copy of this book for my birthday this year, and was immediately drawn towards the material on algebra with which I was most familiar. The most striking thing about the book as a whole, both in the bits I know well, and the bits I don't know much about, is the way in which it combines large portions of accessible text with substantial mathematical content - it is the lack of actual serious content which frustrates me most about popular books about maths (Fermat's Last Theorem and the Riemann Hypothesis have received the popular treatment with limited content). But in this companion there are clues to enable an enthusiast to engage with the material.
It is right to say, as the introduction does, that there is material in this book which will require some knowledge beyond what you might learn at school. But do not let that put you off (it is no more daunting than the physical size of the book, which mirrors only its extensive coverage). For the genius of this companion is in the way that it engages with real mathematics and how it is actually done by real mathematicians. It is not simply a presentation of particular subject matter (as in a text book) nor is it an encyclopedia of mathematics, for it seeks to convey an understanding of the nature and importance of pure mathematics, rather than simply definitions of the component parts - and through disciplined editing and clear exposition it sets a standard which will not easily be matched.
There is a huge amount which will challenge and excite a good A-level student. My one observation is that the suggested further reading is sometimes a great deal more demanding than the component articles of the Companion (which is partly a reflection of just how good these articles are) - but more consistency, or a scheme for marking references accessible at or just beyond A-level is the only improvement I could think of.
If this book had been in my school library when I was 17 ... well every school with a 6th form should have one. And anyone with a true interest in mathematics should have it to browse (and will want to read it). Close but no cigar!, 15 Aug 2008
I'm a huge fan of Francis Rose, and the last wildflower key is a classic that I still use on a daily basis. This revised edition is very clear and concise; the keys are much improved from the last edition, the plastic cover limits water damage in the field and the regional AWI list from Keith Kirby in the back of the book is invaluable.
However, there are two points that make this book a 4 star rather than a 5 star book: Firstly the book to slightly too big for a field guild and is a bit too heavy. Secondly, sadly this revised edition still contains errors with some outdated Latin names; in particular some of the orchid species names are outdated, despite having changed several years before this book was printed, hmm...
Despite these issues it is still a wonderful book, so don't let me put you off!
Excellent revision, 09 Jul 2008
I'm sorry, Tony in Edinburgh, but if this book is bigger than the Edinburgh 'phone book; then there can't be too many people who have 'phones!! I have just purchased a copy of the "keys" and put it straight into my backpack. I have been using the original version for many years as a professional botanist (in fact it was my "Bible") and it was literally falling apart. This new version is even easier to use than the last, I would recommend it to anybody interested in British flora. Too big for a field guide, 05 Nov 2007
I hate to spoil the love-in, but at 900g (2lb) this new edition is simply too heavy to be a practical field guide. This book is thicker than the Edinburgh telephone directory and consequently is highly unlikely to find its way into my pocket or backpack when I am off out. This is a pity because there the book has many good features; greater brevity would have made it a hands-down winner. As it is, the old edition is a more realistic prospect if you want pictures, Stace if you don't. The best key plus picture guide around?, 02 Jul 2007
I got this book as my first `proper' field guide to British plants. The key is very good, and the well-drawn pictures enable beginners to check their identification. I started using this book with only rudimentary botanical skill, and quickly go to the point where I am confident to identify any British plant. The skills I learned enabled my to move onto the `Excursion Flora', and I can now identify all the grasses too!
All in all, an excellent pocket `flora'-highly recommended. A review from a complete beginner, 27 May 2007
The original edition of this book was released when I was only a 1 year-old. As a young girl, growing up near to a forest, surrouded by lovely countryside, I remember taking a passing interest in the wildlife and the flowers. For a time, this interest left me, and I began to forget all the knowledge my mum had passed onto me about the wild plants. Recently, I have longed to get this knowledge back, and to expand on it. Finding this book on Amazon, I felt I could not pass it by.
Although it is not meant as a handy field book - the sheer size of it prevents this - this is a great book both for the beginner (like me) and for those who already have a fair bit of knowledge.
The book is organised well, with lovely drawings of the plants. There is also a good introduction to the book, followed by lots of information about how to use the book, the equipment you may want to get, a guide on flower structure, where to find out more, along with other titbits of info.
For the true beginner, there is also a list of abbreviations, as well as an illustrated glossary at the back of the book.
The general key to plant families is a valuable asset to this book; beginners could not be without it.
This is an excellent edition, of what I understand to be a classic text on wild flowers and their identification. I am very pleased with my choice in beginning with this text to guide me on discovering more about wild flowers, trees and shrubs. Although I have a long way to go, I think this will help me immensely; now, as a beginner, I would not be without it. A fine book an atlas of the ocean, 17 Sep 2008
500 stunning pages full of pictures, illustrations and diagrams covering different oceans, ocean habitats, marine plants and animals, ocean geology, currents, etc. Ideal for homework, reference or just plain interest. A lovely book for the study or coffee table Stunning Pictures, Informative Text, 26 Nov 2006
I have recently purchased this book and am impressed by the fantastic amount of information crammed into it as well as the stunning photography. About half the book is about marine life, but there are also well written and illustrated sections about the physical structure and properties of the oceans, and different ocean environments, as well as an excellent Ocean Atlas at the back. I'd thoroughly recommend it! the best, 10 Nov 2006
I own every book in this series -- Animal, Plant, Earth, Human, and Universe -- and was perplexed why there wasn't an Ocean. When this came out, I was thrilled and nabbed it asap. As usual, the photos are stunning, and Ocean focuses on life at all scales, from microscopic plankton to whales. The multicolored crustaceans and deep-sea bioluminescents are my favorites. I think this is my favorite book in the DK series. No, wait -- Universe is. No -- Ocean. Definitely Ocean. Indispensible, 13 Oct 2002
In a nutshell, the comprehensive entries, covering the broad spectrum that is Human Geography, make this book a must for all students of the subject. Also provides useful reference points for any further reading you may wish to do. It is more than perfect, 30 Jan 2001
This book is one of the most relevant books to those who study geography, demography, and population studies in general A never-fail reference wonder!, 07 Jan 2001
As a student of Human geography, I often require a clear and concise definition of terms for my research and essay writing. This book never fails to provide me with such, giving a clear definition, context and background to every term and issue a human geographer could think of...and plenty more that he/she couldn't! The book is more than just a dictionary, it is a collection of articles and related material that offers a wide range of viewpoints and extra reading at every opportunity. Very well put together, very well researched, well worth your while.
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Customer Reviews
Every child should own it., 05 Oct 2008
I bought this book for all 3 of my children, my 4 God children and my children's school. It is beautifully illustrated and each of the human rights are worded so that children can understand them. It is the sort of book that you hope that if your children become parents, they will pass their copy onto their children. Some people have a family bible; I believe that this is as important if not more so. Really interesting book, 07 Oct 2008
This book is brilliant! It uses maps of the world to display data by distorting the physical size of countries according to the relevant data - the result is a very visual feel for the data - much more powerful than figures or words could be. Every page has a global map displaying a different set of data and the range of data is huge, spanning from spread of diseases to energy use, from prevalence of national disasters to effectiveness of legal systems.
The book is pretty large and an ideal coffee table read. You don't need to be particularly analytical to get a lot from it - just need to be interested in the world. A fantastic new way of looking at the world. Just the ticket, 17 Jul 2008
I've been using my copy of Plant Names Simplified since I was at horticultural college in 1994. It may not be the most comprehensive book but its main aim is to guide you on pronunciation, rather than to teach you latin (as some of the other reviews here infer). Nevertheless, it also tells you what the latin means (ie Convolvulus cnerorum = from convolvo, to entwine; from Greek kneoron, meaning obscure).
I've found it invaluable over the years. It's A5-sized and paperback, so is small enough to be taken on garden visits. Highly recommended. A bit short of the mark, 22 Jun 2008
I thought this was the only book of its kind until I found out about sterns. This book has proved useful but also frustrating when half the words you look up aren't in it. Sterns Book is a much wiser buy if you really want a good reference. A good beginners book, 13 Apr 2006
This a good beginners book and an excellent companion, but one can soon exhaust it. To go further and for serious horticulturalists then Botanical Latin by William T. Stearn [ISBN: 0881926272] is far more rewarding and if you can afford the extra expense and time, I would choose this.
Excellent little book, 08 Jan 2005
Worth having, and helps you to solve those arguments by telling you how to pronouce names too. No Ranger should be without it, 10 Jul 2001
If you work in countryside recreation then this book is a must. It gives you knowledge of plants that will make the public think you are an expert. Just drop a few in a guided walk and see their faces. An unusual and outstanding guide, 05 Nov 2008
I received a copy of this book for my birthday this year, and was immediately drawn towards the material on algebra with which I was most familiar. The most striking thing about the book as a whole, both in the bits I know well, and the bits I don't know much about, is the way in which it combines large portions of accessible text with substantial mathematical content - it is the lack of actual serious content which frustrates me most about popular books about maths (Fermat's Last Theorem and the Riemann Hypothesis have received the popular treatment with limited content). But in this companion there are clues to enable an enthusiast to engage with the material.
It is right to say, as the introduction does, that there is material in this book which will require some knowledge beyond what you might learn at school. But do not let that put you off (it is no more daunting than the physical size of the book, which mirrors only its extensive coverage). For the genius of this companion is in the way that it engages with real mathematics and how it is actually done by real mathematicians. It is not simply a presentation of particular subject matter (as in a text book) nor is it an encyclopedia of mathematics, for it seeks to convey an understanding of the nature and importance of pure mathematics, rather than simply definitions of the component parts - and through disciplined editing and clear exposition it sets a standard which will not easily be matched.
There is a huge amount which will challenge and excite a good A-level student. My one observation is that the suggested further reading is sometimes a great deal more demanding than the component articles of the Companion (which is partly a reflection of just how good these articles are) - but more consistency, or a scheme for marking references accessible at or just beyond A-level is the only improvement I could think of.
If this book had been in my school library when I was 17 ... well every school with a 6th form should have one. And anyone with a true interest in mathematics should have it to browse (and will want to read it). Close but no cigar!, 15 Aug 2008
I'm a huge fan of Francis Rose, and the last wildflower key is a classic that I still use on a daily basis. This revised edition is very clear and concise; the keys are much improved from the last edition, the plastic cover limits water damage in the field and the regional AWI list from Keith Kirby in the back of the book is invaluable.
However, there are two points that make this book a 4 star rather than a 5 star book: Firstly the book to slightly too big for a field guild and is a bit too heavy. Secondly, sadly this revised edition still contains errors with some outdated Latin names; in particular some of the orchid species names are outdated, despite having changed several years before this book was printed, hmm...
Despite these issues it is still a wonderful book, so don't let me put you off!
Excellent revision, 09 Jul 2008
I'm sorry, Tony in Edinburgh, but if this book is bigger than the Edinburgh 'phone book; then there can't be too many people who have 'phones!! I have just purchased a copy of the "keys" and put it straight into my backpack. I have been using the original version for many years as a professional botanist (in fact it was my "Bible") and it was literally falling apart. This new version is even easier to use than the last, I would recommend it to anybody interested in British flora. Too big for a field guide, 05 Nov 2007
I hate to spoil the love-in, but at 900g (2lb) this new edition is simply too heavy to be a practical field guide. This book is thicker than the Edinburgh telephone directory and consequently is highly unlikely to find its way into my pocket or backpack when I am off out. This is a pity because there the book has many good features; greater brevity would have made it a hands-down winner. As it is, the old edition is a more realistic prospect if you want pictures, Stace if you don't. The best key plus picture guide around?, 02 Jul 2007
I got this book as my first `proper' field guide to British plants. The key is very good, and the well-drawn pictures enable beginners to check their identification. I started using this book with only rudimentary botanical skill, and quickly go to the point where I am confident to identify any British plant. The skills I learned enabled my to move onto the `Excursion Flora', and I can now identify all the grasses too!
All in all, an excellent pocket `flora'-highly recommended. A review from a complete beginner, 27 May 2007
The original edition of this book was released when I was only a 1 year-old. As a young girl, growing up near to a forest, surrouded by lovely countryside, I remember taking a passing interest in the wildlife and the flowers. For a time, this interest left me, and I began to forget all the knowledge my mum had passed onto me about the wild plants. Recently, I have longed to get this knowledge back, and to expand on it. Finding this book on Amazon, I felt I could not pass it by.
Although it is not meant as a handy field book - the sheer size of it prevents this - this is a great book both for the beginner (like me) and for those who already have a fair bit of knowledge.
The book is organised well, with lovely drawings of the plants. There is also a good introduction to the book, followed by lots of information about how to use the book, the equipment you may want to get, a guide on flower structure, where to find out more, along with other titbits of info.
For the true beginner, there is also a list of abbreviations, as well as an illustrated glossary at the back of the book.
The general key to plant families is a valuable asset to this book; beginners could not be without it.
This is an excellent edition, of what I understand to be a classic text on wild flowers and their identification. I am very pleased with my choice in beginning with this text to guide me on discovering more about wild flowers, trees and shrubs. Although I have a long way to go, I think this will help me immensely; now, as a beginner, I would not be without it. A fine book an atlas of the ocean, 17 Sep 2008
500 stunning pages full of pictures, illustrations and diagrams covering different oceans, ocean habitats, marine plants and animals, ocean geology, currents, etc. Ideal for homework, reference or just plain interest. A lovely book for the study or coffee table Stunning Pictures, Informative Text, 26 Nov 2006
I have recently purchased this book and am impressed by the fantastic amount of information crammed into it as well as the stunning photography. About half the book is about marine life, but there are also well written and illustrated sections about the physical structure and properties of the oceans, and different ocean environments, as well as an excellent Ocean Atlas at the back. I'd thoroughly recommend it! the best, 10 Nov 2006
I own every book in this series -- Animal, Plant, Earth, Human, and Universe -- and was perplexed why there wasn't an Ocean. When this came out, I was thrilled and nabbed it asap. As usual, the photos are stunning, and Ocean focuses on life at all scales, from microscopic plankton to whales. The multicolored crustaceans and deep-sea bioluminescents are my favorites. I think this is my favorite book in the DK series. No, wait -- Universe is. No -- Ocean. Definitely Ocean. Indispensible, 13 Oct 2002
In a nutshell, the comprehensive entries, covering the broad spectrum that is Human Geography, make this book a must for all students of the subject. Also provides useful reference points for any further reading you may wish to do. It is more than perfect, 30 Jan 2001
This book is one of the most relevant books to those who study geography, demography, and population studies in general A never-fail reference wonder!, 07 Jan 2001
As a student of Human geography, I often require a clear and concise definition of terms for my research and essay writing. This book never fails to provide me with such, giving a clear definition, context and background to every term and issue a human geographer could think of...and plenty more that he/she couldn't! The book is more than just a dictionary, it is a collection of articles and related material that offers a wide range of viewpoints and extra reading at every opportunity. Very well put together, very well researched, well worth your while.
A visual treat, 10 Jan 2008
This is a beautiful book, worthy of pride-of-place on your coffee table or your library shelf. If you're a "map person," you will relish hundreds of illustrations published between the covers. These generously-sized images give you a real opportunity to pore over the details on historical maps, and the accompanying text will teach you something new.
It is an ambitious undertaking to publish a book like this, and Simon Foxell has certainly done justice to his topic. From the famous (eg Hollar's Panorama) to the obscure, the maps are presented in full colour with extended captions. Foxell provides historical context and analyses the role of maps and the information they provide. Open the book to any page, and you'll find something to delight your eyes and tickle your brain.
A great gift for your favourite London-ophile (if that's even a word!).
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Customer Reviews
Every child should own it., 05 Oct 2008
I bought this book for all 3 of my children, my 4 God children and my children's school. It is beautifully illustrated and each of the human rights are worded so that children can understand them. It is the sort of book that you hope that if your children become parents, they will pass their copy onto their children. Some people have a family bible; I believe that this is as important if not more so. Really interesting book, 07 Oct 2008
This book is brilliant! It uses maps of the world to display data by distorting the physical size of countries according to the relevant data - the result is a very visual feel for the data - much more powerful than figures or words could be. Every page has a global map displaying a different set of data and the range of data is huge, spanning from spread of diseases to energy use, from prevalence of national disasters to effectiveness of legal systems.
The book is pretty large and an ideal coffee table read. You don't need to be particularly analytical to get a lot from it - just need to be interested in the world. A fantastic new way of looking at the world. Just the ticket, 17 Jul 2008
I've been using my copy of Plant Names Simplified since I was at horticultural college in 1994. It may not be the most comprehensive book but its main aim is to guide you on pronunciation, rather than to teach you latin (as some of the other reviews here infer). Nevertheless, it also tells you what the latin means (ie Convolvulus cnerorum = from convolvo, to entwine; from Greek kneoron, meaning obscure).
I've found it invaluable over the years. It's A5-sized and paperback, so is small enough to be taken on garden visits. Highly recommended. A bit short of the mark, 22 Jun 2008
I thought this was the only book of its kind until I found out about sterns. This book has proved useful but also frustrating when half the words you look up aren't in it. Sterns Book is a much wiser buy if you really want a good reference. A good beginners book, 13 Apr 2006
This a good beginners book and an excellent companion, but one can soon exhaust it. To go further and for serious horticulturalists then Botanical Latin by William T. Stearn [ISBN: 0881926272] is far more rewarding and if you can afford the extra expense and time, I would choose this.
Excellent little book, 08 Jan 2005
Worth having, and helps you to solve those arguments by telling you how to pronouce names too. No Ranger should be without it, 10 Jul 2001
If you work in countryside recreation then this book is a must. It gives you knowledge of plants that will make the public think you are an expert. Just drop a few in a guided walk and see their faces. An unusual and outstanding guide, 05 Nov 2008
I received a copy of this book for my birthday this year, and was immediately drawn towards the material on algebra with which I was most familiar. The most striking thing about the book as a whole, both in the bits I know well, and the bits I don't know much about, is the way in which it combines large portions of accessible text with substantial mathematical content - it is the lack of actual serious content which frustrates me most about popular books about maths (Fermat's Last Theorem and the Riemann Hypothesis have received the popular treatment with limited content). But in this companion there are clues to enable an enthusiast to engage with the material.
It is right to say, as the introduction does, that there is material in this book which will require some knowledge beyond what you might learn at school. But do not let that put you off (it is no more daunting than the physical size of the book, which mirrors only its extensive coverage). For the genius of this companion is in the way that it engages with real mathematics and how it is actually done by real mathematicians. It is not simply a presentation of particular subject matter (as in a text book) nor is it an encyclopedia of mathematics, for it seeks to convey an understanding of the nature and importance of pure mathematics, rather than simply definitions of the component parts - and through disciplined editing and clear exposition it sets a standard which will not easily be matched.
There is a huge amount which will challenge and excite a good A-level student. My one observation is that the suggested further reading is sometimes a great deal more demanding than the component articles of the Companion (which is partly a reflection of just how good these articles are) - but more consistency, or a scheme for marking references accessible at or just beyond A-level is the only improvement I could think of.
If this book had been in my school library when I was 17 ... well every school with a 6th form should have one. And anyone with a true interest in mathematics should have it to browse (and will want to read it). Close but no cigar!, 15 Aug 2008
I'm a huge fan of Francis Rose, and the last wildflower key is a classic that I still use on a daily basis. This revised edition is very clear and concise; the keys are much improved from the last edition, the plastic cover limits water damage in the field and the regional AWI list from Keith Kirby in the back of the book is invaluable.
However, there are two points that make this book a 4 star rather than a 5 star book: Firstly the book to slightly too big for a field guild and is a bit too heavy. Secondly, sadly this revised edition still contains errors with some outdated Latin names; in particular some of the orchid species names are outdated, despite having changed several years before this book was printed, hmm...
Despite these issues it is still a wonderful book, so don't let me put you off!
Excellent revision, 09 Jul 2008
I'm sorry, Tony in Edinburgh, but if this book is bigger than the Edinburgh 'phone book; then there can't be too many people who have 'phones!! I have just purchased a copy of the "keys" and put it straight into my backpack. I have been using the original version for many years as a professional botanist (in fact it was my "Bible") and it was literally falling apart. This new version is even easier to use than the last, I would recommend it to anybody interested in British flora. Too big for a field guide, 05 Nov 2007
I hate to spoil the love-in, but at 900g (2lb) this new edition is simply too heavy to be a practical field guide. This book is thicker than the Edinburgh telephone directory and consequently is highly unlikely to find its way into my pocket or backpack when I am off out. This is a pity because there the book has many good features; greater brevity would have made it a hands-down winner. As it is, the old edition is a more realistic prospect if you want pictures, Stace if you don't. The best key plus picture guide around?, 02 Jul 2007
I got this book as my first `proper' field guide to British plants. The key is very good, and the well-drawn pictures enable beginners to check their identification. I started using this book with only rudimentary botanical skill, and quickly go to the point where I am confident to identify any British plant. The skills I learned enabled my to move onto the `Excursion Flora', and I can now identify all the grasses too!
All in all, an excellent pocket `flora'-highly recommended. A review from a complete beginner, 27 May 2007
The original edition of this book was released when I was only a 1 year-old. As a young girl, growing up near to a forest, surrouded by lovely countryside, I remember taking a passing interest in the wildlife and the flowers. For a time, this interest left me, and I began to forget all the knowledge my mum had passed onto me about the wild plants. Recently, I have longed to get this knowledge back, and to expand on it. Finding this book on Amazon, I felt I could not pass it by.
Although it is not meant as a handy field book - the sheer size of it prevents this - this is a great book both for the beginner (like me) and for those who already have a fair bit of knowledge.
The book is organised well, with lovely drawings of the plants. There is also a good introduction to the book, followed by lots of information about how to use the book, the equipment you may want to get, a guide on flower structure, where to find out more, along with other titbits of info.
For the true beginner, there is also a list of abbreviations, as well as an illustrated glossary at the back of the book.
The general key to plant families is a valuable asset to this book; beginners could not be without it.
This is an excellent edition, of what I understand to be a classic text on wild flowers and their identification. I am very pleased with my choice in beginning with this text to guide me on discovering more about wild flowers, trees and shrubs. Although I have a long way to go, I think this will help me immensely; now, as a beginner, I would not be without it. A fine book an atlas of the ocean, 17 Sep 2008
500 stunning pages full of pictures, illustrations and diagrams covering different oceans, ocean habitats, marine plants and animals, ocean geology, currents, etc. Ideal for homework, reference or just plain interest. A lovely book for the study or coffee table Stunning Pictures, Informative Text, 26 Nov 2006
I have recently purchased this book and am impressed by the fantastic amount of information crammed into it as well as the stunning photography. About half the book is about marine life, but there are also well written and illustrated sections about the physical structure and properties of the oceans, and different ocean environments, as well as an excellent Ocean Atlas at the back. I'd thoroughly recommend it! the best, 10 Nov 2006
I own every book in this series -- Animal, Plant, Earth, Human, and Universe -- and was perplexed why there wasn't an Ocean. When this came out, I was thrilled and nabbed it asap. As usual, the photos are stunning, and Ocean focuses on life at all scales, from microscopic plankton to whales. The multicolored crustaceans and deep-sea bioluminescents are my favorites. I think this is my favorite book in the DK series. No, wait -- Universe is. No -- Ocean. Definitely Ocean. Indispensible, 13 Oct 2002
In a nutshell, the comprehensive entries, covering the broad spectrum that is Human Geography, make this book a must for all students of the subject. Also provides useful reference points for any further reading you may wish to do. It is more than perfect, 30 Jan 2001
This book is one of the most relevant books to those who study geography, demography, and population studies in general A never-fail reference wonder!, 07 Jan 2001
As a student of Human geography, I often require a clear and concise definition of terms for my research and essay writing. This book never fails to provide me with such, giving a clear definition, context and background to every term and issue a human geographer could think of...and plenty more that he/she couldn't! The book is more than just a dictionary, it is a collection of articles and related material that offers a wide range of viewpoints and extra reading at every opportunity. Very well put together, very well researched, well worth your while.
A visual treat, 10 Jan 2008
This is a beautiful book, worthy of pride-of-place on your coffee table or your library shelf. If you're a "map person," you will relish hundreds of illustrations published between the covers. These generously-sized images give you a real opportunity to pore over the details on historical maps, and the accompanying text will teach you something new.
It is an ambitious undertaking to publish a book like this, and Simon Foxell has certainly done justice to his topic. From the famous (eg Hollar's Panorama) to the obscure, the maps are presented in full colour with extended captions. Foxell provides historical context and analyses the role of maps and the information they provide. Open the book to any page, and you'll find something to delight your eyes and tickle your brain.
A great gift for your favourite London-ophile (if that's even a word!).
A great historical resource, 27 Aug 2008
I went on a battlefield tour of the D-Day landing beaches and the Normandy campaign, and found this fantastically useful. Having things like the flooded areas marked on the map helped put it all into context on the ground.
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Customer Reviews
Every child should own it., 05 Oct 2008
I bought this book for all 3 of my children, my 4 God children and my children's school. It is beautifully illustrated and each of the human rights are worded so that children can understand them. It is the sort of book that you hope that if your children become parents, they will pass their copy onto their children. Some people have a family bible; I believe that this is as important if not more so. Really interesting book, 07 Oct 2008
This book is brilliant! It uses maps of the world to display data by distorting the physical size of countries according to the relevant data - the result is a very visual feel for the data - much more powerful than figures or words could be. Every page has a global map displaying a different set of data and the range of data is huge, spanning from spread of diseases to energy use, from prevalence of national disasters to effectiveness of legal systems.
The book is pretty large and an ideal coffee table read. You don't need to be particularly analytical to get a lot from it - just need to be interested in the world. A fantastic new way of looking at the world. Just the ticket, 17 Jul 2008
I've been using my copy of Plant Names Simplified since I was at horticultural college in 1994. It may not be the most comprehensive book but its main aim is to guide you on pronunciation, rather than to teach you latin (as some of the other reviews here infer). Nevertheless, it also tells you what the latin means (ie Convolvulus cnerorum = from convolvo, to entwine; from Greek kneoron, meaning obscure).
I've found it invaluable over the years. It's A5-sized and paperback, so is small enough to be taken on garden visits. Highly recommended. A bit short of the mark, 22 Jun 2008
I thought this was the only book of its kind until I found out about sterns. This book has proved useful but also frustrating when half the words you look up aren't in it. Sterns Book is a much wiser buy if you really want a good reference. A good beginners book, 13 Apr 2006
This a good beginners book and an excellent companion, but one can soon exhaust it. To go further and for serious horticulturalists then Botanical Latin by William T. Stearn [ISBN: 0881926272] is far more rewarding and if you can afford the extra expense and time, I would choose this.
Excellent little book, 08 Jan 2005
Worth having, and helps you to solve those arguments by telling you how to pronouce names too. No Ranger should be without it, 10 Jul 2001
If you work in countryside recreation then this book is a must. It gives you knowledge of plants that will make the public think you are an expert. Just drop a few in a guided walk and see their faces. An unusual and outstanding guide, 05 Nov 2008
I received a copy of this book for my birthday this year, and was immediately drawn towards the material on algebra with which I was most familiar. The most striking thing about the book as a whole, both in the bits I know well, and the bits I don't know much about, is the way in which it combines large portions of accessible text with substantial mathematical content - it is the lack of actual serious content which frustrates me most about popular books about maths (Fermat's Last Theorem and the Riemann Hypothesis have received the popular treatment with limited content). But in this companion there are clues to enable an enthusiast to engage with the material.
It is right to say, as the introduction does, that there is material in this book which will require some knowledge beyond what you might learn at school. But do not let that put you off (it is no more daunting than the physical size of the book, which mirrors only its extensive coverage). For the genius of this companion is in the way that it engages with real mathematics and how it is actually done by real mathematicians. It is not simply a presentation of particular subject matter (as in a text book) nor is it an encyclopedia of mathematics, for it seeks to convey an understanding of the nature and importance of pure mathematics, rather than simply definitions of the component parts - and through disciplined editing and clear exposition it sets a standard which will not easily be matched.
There is a huge amount which will challenge and excite a good A-level student. My one observation is that the suggested further reading is sometimes a great deal more demanding than the component articles of the Companion (which is partly a reflection of just how good these articles are) - but more consistency, or a scheme for marking references accessible at or just beyond A-level is the only improvement I could think of.
If this book had been in my school library when I was 17 ... well every school with a 6th form should have one. And anyone with a true interest in mathematics should have it to browse (and will want to read it). Close but no cigar!, 15 Aug 2008
I'm a huge fan of Francis Rose, and the last wildflower key is a classic that I still use on a daily basis. This revised edition is very clear and concise; the keys are much improved from the last edition, the plastic cover limits water damage in the field and the regional AWI list from Keith Kirby in the back of the book is invaluable.
However, there are two points that make this book a 4 star rather than a 5 star book: Firstly the book to slightly too big for a field guild and is a bit too heavy. Secondly, sadly this revised edition still contains errors with some outdated Latin names; in particular some of the orchid species names are outdated, despite having changed several years before this book was printed, hmm...
Despite these issues it is still a wonderful book, so don't let me put you off!
Excellent revision, 09 Jul 2008
I'm sorry, Tony in Edinburgh, but if this book is bigger than the Edinburgh 'phone book; then there can't be too many people who have 'phones!! I have just purchased a copy of the "keys" and put it straight into my backpack. I have been using the original version for many years as a professional botanist (in fact it was my "Bible") and it was literally falling apart. This new version is even easier to use than the last, I would recommend it to anybody interested in British flora. Too big for a field guide, 05 Nov 2007
I hate to spoil the love-in, but at 900g (2lb) this new edition is simply too heavy to be a practical field guide. This book is thicker than the Edinburgh telephone directory and consequently is highly unlikely to find its way into my pocket or backpack when I am off out. This is a pity because there the book has many good features; greater brevity would have made it a hands-down winner. As it is, the old edition is a more realistic prospect if you want pictures, Stace if you don't. The best key plus picture guide around?, 02 Jul 2007
I got this book as my first `proper' field guide to British plants. The key is very good, and the well-drawn pictures enable beginners to check their identification. I started using this book with only rudimentary botanical skill, and quickly go to the point where I am confident to identify any British plant. The skills I learned enabled my to move onto the `Excursion Flora', and I can now identify all the grasses too!
All in all, an excellent pocket `flora'-highly recommended. A review from a complete beginner, 27 May 2007
The original edition of this book was released when I was only a 1 year-old. As a young girl, growing up near to a forest, surrouded by lovely countryside, I remember taking a passing interest in the wildlife and the flowers. For a time, this interest left me, and I began to forget all the knowledge my mum had passed onto me about the wild plants. Recently, I have longed to get this knowledge back, and to expand on it. Finding this book on Amazon, I felt I could not pass it by.
Although it is not meant as a handy field book - the sheer size of it prevents this - this is a great book both for the beginner (like me) and for those who already have a fair bit of knowledge.
The book is organised well, with lovely drawings of the plants. There is also a good introduction to the book, followed by lots of information about how to use the book, the equipment you may want to get, a guide on flower structure, where to find out more, along with other titbits of info.
For the true beginner, there is also a list of abbreviations, as well as an illustrated glossary at the back of the book.
The general key to plant families is a valuable asset to this book; beginners could not be without it.
This is an excellent edition, of what I understand to be a classic text on wild flowers and their identification. I am very pleased with my choice in beginning with this text to guide me on discovering more about wild flowers, trees and shrubs. Although I have a long way to go, I think this will help me immensely; now, as a beginner, I would not be without it. A fine book an atlas of the ocean, 17 Sep 2008
500 stunning pages full of pictures, illustrations and diagrams covering different oceans, ocean habitats, marine plants and animals, ocean geology, currents, etc. Ideal for homework, reference or just plain interest. A lovely book for the study or coffee table Stunning Pictures, Informative Text, 26 Nov 2006
I have recently purchased this book and am impressed by the fantastic amount of information crammed into it as well as the stunning photography. About half the book is about marine life, but there are also well written and illustrated sections about the physical structure and properties of the oceans, and different ocean environments, as well as an excellent Ocean Atlas at the back. I'd thoroughly recommend it! the best, 10 Nov 2006
I own every book in this series -- Animal, Plant, Earth, Human, and Universe -- and was perplexed why there wasn't an Ocean. When this came out, I was thrilled and nabbed it asap. As usual, the photos are stunning, and Ocean focuses on life at all scales, from microscopic plankton to whales. The multicolored crustaceans and deep-sea bioluminescents are my favorites. I think this is my favorite book in the DK series. No, wait -- Universe is. No -- Ocean. Definitely Ocean. Indispensible, 13 Oct 2002
In a nutshell, the comprehensive entries, covering the broad spectrum that is Human Geography, make this book a must for all students of the subject. Also provides useful reference points for any further reading you may wish to do. It is more than perfect, 30 Jan 2001
This book is one of the most relevant books to those who study geography, demography, and population studies in general A never-fail reference wonder!, 07 Jan 2001
As a student of Human geography, I often require a clear and concise definition of terms for my research and essay writing. This book never fails to provide me with such, giving a clear definition, context and background to every term and issue a human geographer could think of...and plenty more that he/she couldn't! The book is more than just a dictionary, it is a collection of articles and related material that offers a wide range of viewpoints and extra reading at every opportunity. Very well put together, very well researched, well worth your while.
A visual treat, 10 Jan 2008
This is a beautiful book, worthy of pride-of-place on your coffee table or your library shelf. If you're a "map person," you will relish hundreds of illustrations published between the covers. These generously-sized images give you a real opportunity to pore over the details on historical maps, and the accompanying text will teach you something new.
It is an ambitious undertaking to publish a book like this, and Simon Foxell has certainly done justice to his topic. From the famous (eg Hollar's Panorama) to the obscure, the maps are presented in full colour with extended captions. Foxell provides historical context and analyses the role of maps and the information they provide. Open the book to any page, and you'll find something to delight your eyes and tickle your brain.
A great gift for your favourite London-ophile (if that's even a word!).
A great historical resource, 27 Aug 2008
I went on a battlefield tour of the D-Day landing beaches and the Normandy campaign, and found this fantastically useful. Having things like the flooded areas marked on the map helped put it all into context on the ground.
Frightening Book, 12 Mar 2008
There is a lot of information in this book, most of it seemingly designed to put teenagers off sex for ever. Many of the entries seem unnecessarily negative and the language is so clinical that it is highly off-putting. The danger of HIV and other STDs is mentioned repeatedly. There is little in here about the pleasure of sex or how actually to do it.
Take the example of Fellatio. The author writes 6 short lines on what it is including the utterly useless piece of information that it comes from the Latin "to suck" and then devotes the rest of 2 pages mainly to warnings about STDs.
Also, I can't help feeling that the book is really aimed more at
"girls" rather than "guys" and this is more where the author's expertise and interest lies. The "bad sex" section for men states that for most men bad sex is about ejaculating too soon, or not getting an erection. This is so ludicrously wrong that it does make you wonder whether the author is not herself falling for some of the myths around sex and masculinity.
I cannot believe that most teenagers would find this book anything but alarming, however the book gets 2 stars rather than one as it is full of information and clearly written. I think it has some use as a reference book for a sexually experienced teenager who can cope with the "bad news".
A Complulsory Buy For Familes!, 23 Nov 2006
This book is an extremely important and valuable book to have in your home if you are bringing up children. I have never been embarrassed to talk about sex and all it's complexities with any of my four children, but of course, they have at times been embarrassed to listen! So this book, left openly on our bookshelf, for all to read, has been invaluable. Children deserve to know how their bodies work......this goes a long way into explaining everything you possible need to know in a very clear and open manner.Highly recommened!
Helps you young ones know more & great as a teaching aid., 15 Jan 2005
If you're a young person or a parent, this book is great. I work with young people. The book is a great aid to explain and show young people certain aspects. You can even create little projects or get them to do research. I found it's especially great to use with those who find it hard to read. Plenty of pictures and simple text to help keep them engaged. Sometimes it comes in handy for me (we can't know everything).
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