This book is not in fact "An Introduction to Plant Biology" by Mauseth, as the heading might suggest, but is merely a kind of glorified notebook for the use of students taking a course for which the Mauseth book is the set text. It is not a textbook on botany.

Thsi book was a perfect bookb for someone who wants to know the straight facts about Botany. For example, a college student might enjoy useing this book because it is packed with so much information.

This book is a must for anyone seriously interested in learning about plants and their relation to the other living kingdoms. It is richly illustrated and covers material clearly and in-depth. I have used the first edition for over eight years as 1) a good read and 2) a reference that continues to inform me as a serious gardener as well as an educated layman. The book emphasizes the evolutionary adaptative aspects of plants to their environment. Starting from the basics of chemistry, it covers plant anatomy, physiology, genetics, and taxonomy. It is a wonderful resource.