Editorial Review

Perfect for mountain climbers and hikers, this valuable reference covers more rocks and minerals in North America than any other available guide. 794 full-color photographs depict all the important rocks, gems, and minerals -- in many variations of color and crystal form -- and the natural environments in which they occur; written descriptions provide information on field marks, similar rocks and minerals, environment, areas of occurrence, and derivation of names. Includes a guide to mineral collecting and a list of rock-forming minerals ... Read more

Reviews

A Rockhounds Handy Pocket Tool, April 15, 1998
This book is an amateur rockhounds must have. Having been through at least ten other titles, This one offers the most in depth, yet easy to understand information. It contains a 230 page section of photographs which are categorized by color, then by formation. Ending out this section they have included several pages containing before and after photographs of select minerals shown in the rough,then as a gem. Below each photograph is a corresponding page number to the mineral description. The mineral description section includes information on the native elements that make up each mineral, Color and Luster description, Hardness, Cleavage, Specific gravity, Crystal formation, Best field marks, Similar species, Environment in which it may be found,and where in North America they occur. For beginners who may not understand what these identifying features mean or how to go about using them, they should refer to Part 1 in the guide, A Guide To Mineral Identification. Here the authors thoroughly cover each physical property, and the way each can be used in the process of identification. Once familiar with each identifying feature, the Descriptive Key To Minerals section located directly after the photograph section will be your next stop. Using your new found knowledge about the rock or minerals physical properties is made simple in this section. This key is categorized by color. Under each color section the minerals are arranged by increasing hardness which is then broken down by quality and cleavages. Each description also includes other identifying features and a reference to the page that contains the full classification information. For the pro-amateur to expert rockhound, I would recommend The Descriptive Key to Minerals section to be their first stop. Though what I have described up to this point would be quite thorough in its own right, I should mention the section located in the back of the book which is dedicated solely to Rocks. This area contains approximately 30 pages of photographs, including their corresponding page number to its classification information page. Part III and IV, contain information on tools and techniques, mineral environments, a rock and mineral glossary, and a listing of rock forming minerals. For the curious, it also includes a list indicating each illustrated specimens place of origin. I would recommend this book to not just the rock, mineral enthusiest but to anyone. Each mineral is referenced by and to all pages containing corresponding information, making it a simple process to learn as much as the book has to offer. In my opinion, the photographs alone make this book one of the most enjoyable rock, mineral guide I have used. At this low price, it is one of a kind.

Rockhound's bible, August 31, 2002
This book is a must have for any experienced rockhound. The field guide sorts mineral specimens by color and then further subdivides them by crystal habit. The color plates are nicely photographed and direct the reader to the corresponding pages which contain all the mineralogic characteristics of the specimens. All the information a rockhound could possibly desire, including North American collecting locales is contained within.

This would not be a suitable book for a beginner in the field as the retrieval of information would not be easily done by a novice. As a long time serious collector, despite the approximately 800 pages, many popular minerals have been omitted.

Beginner's Must Have, April 23, 2000
Did you ever find an interesting, or pretty, rock speciman and wonder what it REALLY is? Well, if you have, this book is for you! The color pictures of rough rock/mineral examples are a treasure to those of us new to rock identification. The photos are sorted by color, which makes great sense. These color plates are easy to access as the pages are black in background (as opposed to the white of regular pages) so one can flip right to the color plates. Under each photo is the name, and corresponding page number where one can find the information pertaining to the piece. Information pages have the proper names, and a multitude of information regarding the rock/mineral, including areas one is most likely to locate the speciman. The field guide also contains a short guide to mineral identification, talking about the various elements that can help one to positively identify the rock or mineral. Remember earth science? Well, if you don't have total recall, no problem. This guide also has sections that can reintroduce you to the fundamentals of igneous, sedimentary or metamorphic rocks. This guide is a must have for beginners in rock collecting or identification. It can supply the simple to the more complex in easy to read and understand language. This book is also heavily cross-referenced so it is hard NOT to find what you are searching for! The book size is handy for taking out into the field, and the vinyl-type cover helps protect the book from wear and tear. I must confess I got much more from the book than I anticipated and it has become one of my favorite field guides.

A good fieldguide for geologists, May 6, 2002
This fieldguide is probably one of the best fieldguides out there on rocks and minerals. Being a geology student at Ohio State, I found this book very helpful in the identification of minerals and rocks. It contains an identification key according to hardness and cleavage for minerals, and a key pertaining to rock fabric and hardness for rocks. These keys are integeral to quick identification. One thing I don't like about this book is that the pictures and the text are in two seperate sections. That and the rock section of the book is somewhat lacking. But the main types of rocks are touched upon. However, the book is filled with information, and is very helpful. If you aren't a geologist of sorts, it is somewhat technical, but offers a good glossary of terms, and explains cleavage and other mineral properties well. Overall, an excellent fieldguide for identifying rocks and minerals.

Great keys, June 13, 2001
I think that the National Audubon Society Field Gude to North American Rocks and Minerals is a great guide for on the field. The visual key gives you great colored pictures to compare the rocks you find. Then, you look at the page number to the right of the name on the visual key, and you compare your rocks to that. I think that this is a great book for beginners and a great book for studying.

Not the best out there..., May 3, 2000
Most Audubon Field Guides that I have seen have greats amount of detal, as does this one, but a necesssity in identification of rocks and minerals is to be able to see the picture while you read the data to compare what you see, and as this book has them separte, it makes it very difficult to use when you need to reference material quick. A good book for details, though and the pictures ARE pretty, but as a student who really likes minerals, I'd have to say Simon and Schuster is a better book for the field or lab.

Audobon Firld Guide to N.A. Rocks and Minerals, September 30, 2005
This is a very nicely organized book. Great size for a backpack or car - looks nice, too. Organized with about half the pages being color photos of rocks and minerals, the other half being more technical descriptions of the features of the rocks / minerals.

I'm a novice when it comes to the whole field of rock collecting, etc., but, this book makes it easy (organized by color rather than mineral). So, I can look for the color and find my stone.

Had fun just flipping through the book and looking at the pictures with my granddaughter.

I'd certainly recommend this book to anyone that wants to find out what kind of rock they have and to get info about it. Also to anyone who is curious about rocks in general. I believe it would be valuable to a field expert, too - but, not being one - cannot state that for sure.

A more serious field guide, June 29, 2007
I bought this book, along with DK/Smithsonian guides to "Rocks & Minerals" and "Gemstones" for my children, one of which is a budding rockhound.

While I am certainly no expert in this area, my very amateur opinion is that this bulky guide is far more scientific and in keeping with traditional field guide format.

The binding is certainly sturdy, and after a short introduction to mineral identification, the book features a photograph of each of the minerals profiled, along with a reference page to the descriptive key that follows. The same is done with rocks.

As a homeschooling mother of two, I would say this book is better for older children or adults with an interest in this field. My 7-yr-old daughter is far more likely to pick up one of the DK/Smithsonian guides (which are separate and less complete) than this one.

I foresee the pages of this book getting a bit more daylight as my children get older.

Highly recommended.

good, but......, December 9, 2006
We purchased this field guide based on other great reviews. Although it it very thorough.....it is thorough about minerals. 2/3 of the book is about minerals. We wanted to know more about ROCKS. If you love minerals, then this is the guide for you. If you are a rock lover....keep looking.

Rocks and Minerals Field Guide "Rocks!", September 26, 2005
A truly invaluable tool to the rockhounds and lapidaries! Though I have not read it "cover to cover" yet - I have certainly used it almost daily. Well worth the price. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Reviews

A vast improvement over 3rd edition!, November 2, 2006
As someone majoring in Wildlife Science, I needed to have a field guide for my studies. I bought the previous edition about 3 yrs ago, but found it lacking. For example, it showed the historic range of raccoons, but not the current (expanded) range. It also used older genera (plural for genus) names & had very few bat species depicted. These & other factors made it impractical for me to use the book in my studies.

However, this new edition appears to be much more applicable for someone like me. It has color maps (the 3rd edition's maps were black & white) which are included in the species accounts (rather than at the end). Introduced species & their populations are shown in blue; historic ranges are shown using dashed lines; & sea mammals' ranges are included (no ranges were given for them in the 3rd ed.). Select maps are even shown with county lines drawn in in large states like CA & TX so residents can easily determine whether a species is in their county or not.

The color plates are better too. Animals are depicted in more natural body positions & appear more lifelike. There are many many more bat species depicted than in the 3rd ed. Sea mammals are included in the color plates; in the third edition, they were only depicted in black & white drawings. Introduced species (like the Blackbuck) are also depicted in this section. Select black & white animal tracks are included in the color plate section, rather than on the inside cover.

Skull identification is very important to biologists, since skulls are often all you'll find of an animal. This book has color photos of various skulls. The 3rd ed. had only black & white photos, which wasn't so bad, but I like the color photos better. Also, the dental formulae are given in this section for the respective genera. I will say, however, that I did like the dental formulae chart in the 3rd ed. because it summarized them all in 1 place, rather than spreading them out over several pages.

Immediately following these plates is a section of illustrated shrew teeth & molars of sm mammals. On the page just before the Species Accounts section is a depiction of pocket gophers with grooves on their incisors, a feature often used to distinguish between them.

Although most color photos are found in the skull section, there are more throughout the species accounts.

Species' names have been updated too. In the 3rd ed, the author chose to stick w/ some of the older names. In this edition, the accepted names (like Spermophilus) are used & even Bison bison was updated to Bos bison.

In the species accounts, common names other than the one Reid used are written in sm uppercase letters below the line w/ the common & scientific names. For example:
COYPU Myocastor coypus (introduced)
NUTRIA

The species accounts describe the animal, sounds it makes, similar species, habits, habitat, range, & even its status (whether it's common or endangered, & which organization lists them as such, such as the USFWS & the CITES appendix #). The previous edition included eyeshine colors (which are included in some entries in this new edition), number of mammae, & economic impacts, but for the most part these features were left out of this edition. However, I doubt many people will miss them.

I think this edition is excellent. I only had my book for a day & yet I found all the improvements mentioned above. I recommend putting a self-adhesive plastic book cover on your book because the plasticized coating wears a bit quickly. (Note: I've had my book just over a year now and am slightly editing my comments to fix minor typos & improve the flow a bit :})

The Best Holiday Present in Thirty Years, December 4, 2006
Fiona Reid has created a tour-de-force in The new Peterson Field Guide to Mammals of North America, the first update of the Peterson series on mammals in thirty years. This is the best Peterson Field guide ever, the ideal gift or stocking stuffer and a must have for anyone who loves environment, natural history, the outdoors and wildlife, from your budding naturalist eight-year old to your birder grandmother in Wisconsin.

The new guide combines all the best features of recent ground-breaking field guides in a completely new book. It is both encyclopeadic and accessible, beautiful to hold in the hand and, as has always been the case with the Peterson series, the perfect size to take to the field. It will also look very good on your window sill and be handy next time that bear or ermine comes to the feeder.

A revision was of Peterson's Mammal Guide was long overdue and Fiona Reid has gone about it masterfully. In comparing the new and the old guide, one need only look at the new paintings to realize how much we needed this brand new treatment of North American mammals and to see how beautiful a book this is. Our knowledge has advanced tremendously, even for better known groups such as the carnivores; but it is when you spend some time with groups such as the bats and the chipmunks that you begin to realize just how far we have come since the last edition in our understanding of the mammalian diversity we see around us. Brilliant author-biologist-artist Fiona Reid has captured the traditional basics of a field guide with astounding plates and just the right amount of detail on ranges, biology, morphology, and even environmental threats.

This is the new gold-standard of field guides.

Top notch mammal guide, January 21, 2007
This new guide is hands down the best mammal guide for North America currently available. An impressive volume and effort by the author. The artwork is superb, the photography crisp, and the phylogeny and other science accurate and up to date.

Great Guide, May 15, 2007
A thorough guide to North American animals. Lot's of color plates and informative. It even covers animals in their stages like a fox in winter and midsummer and how their coats change color.

To put it simply you won't be disappointed.

Peterson field guides are the BEST!, July 4, 2009
I own 4 Peterson Field Guides: edible wild plants, insects, reptile and amphibians, and mammals.
I am a student at U of M in Dearborn, MI and 2 of these books were required in a field biology class. They are easy to use, offer complete species information, and are a sturdy well bound book.

Peterson Field Guide to Mammals of North America: Fourth Edition, March 22, 2009
Good book, there are some north american species maybe overpass because live in North Mexico includieng Baja which should begin in the guide, otherwise the propper name should be USA & Canada mammals guide. The carrier left the book on the rain, not destroyed at all.

Excellent and thorough, but not as natural to use as Kaufmann, February 5, 2010
I returned the Peterson Guide to Mammals and bought the Kaufmann Mammals Guide. The Peterson Guide is excellent and thorough, but the arrangement is not as easy to use as the Kaufmann Guide to Mammals. For my purpose as a quick reference guide in the field, my wife and I prefer the Kaufmann guide with its excellent photos and natural indexing.Kaufman Field Guide to Mammals of North America

Comprehensive & Very Useful, December 30, 2009
This Peterson Guide offers a very well-rounded selection of animals at a great price. You won't find a plate of every little-known vole species in existence, but you'll find more than you've likely ever heard of. An especially useful addition to this field guide is the extensive series of skull plates. No field guide on mammals is required to have a section dedicated to osteology, but this Peterson Guide goes above and beyond the call of duty in this respect.

Inevitably, you'll find an animal here or there that is placed under a genus or species that has since been revised by the scientific community. Knowledge concerning mammalian taxonomy is simply increasing faster than revised editions can be printed, so this doesn't really represent a 'weakness' in the Peterson Guide.

Best Field Guides Around, September 16, 2009
This is my second Perterson's Field Guide and I love them. So far I have found that these are the best field guides around. They are put together nicely, its easy to find what your looking for. They have drawings, actual photos and good write ups. Highly recommend any of the Peterson's guides.

Great gift, June 12, 2009
Bought this for my non-fiction 10 year old nature enthusiast. I'll find him with it just looking things up and when he finds something cool you can see him brighten with the new knowledge. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Spot the silhouette of a Northern Goshawk in flight. Identify the raucous call of the Red-winged Blackbird. Discover the secret of picking out a Chipping Sparrow from its look-alike cousins. It's simple with this classic field guide, a treasured favorite among amateur bird lovers and exacting professionals. Recognized as the authority on bird identification, this invaluable resource provides:

-All of North America in one volume
-Over 800 species and 600 range maps
-Arthur Singer's famous illustrations featuring male, female, and juvenile plumage
-Sonograms that picture sound for easy song recognition
-Migration routes, feeding habits, and characteristic flight patterns
-American ornithologists' classifications
-Convenient check boxes to record birds you have identified
-Color tabs for quick references
... Read more

Reviews

A classic updated, but on the cheap, April 16, 2001
The Golden field guide, *Birds of North America* has been a favorite companion for countless birders since it was first published in the late 1960's. It has the virtues of being nationally comprehensive, easy to follow (illustrations, maps, songs, and descriptions are provided on the same two pages), and perhaps best of all, small enough to carry in a jacket pocket. It also uses an interesting and highly useful visual "sonagram" approach to conveying information about bird vocalizations.

Unfortunately, however, the ornithological powers that be are constantly lumping and splitting species, rendering field guides at least somewhat obsolete overnight. Consequently, these books must be updated periodically so as to be optimally useful to birders. The Golden guide was last updated during the 1980s, and was long overdue for a makeover.

Happily, this has finally been provided. And indeed, this revised version of the guide is (for the moment) up to date regarding the various lumps and splits that have gone into effect over the past decade. Some of the "splits" are fully illustrated, as with the Canyon vs. California (formerly Brown) towhee. Some, however, are only mentioned in the text, and sometimes all too briefly. It's probably ok not to have a separate illustration of the smaller Gunnison species of the Sage grouse, but a separate illustration of the California gnatcatcher surely should have been provided. Similarly, the somewhat larger and brighter Island scrub jay should have been depicted separately from its relatives the scrub and Florida jays.

Certainly, the publishers of this revised version of the Golden guide have made an earnest effort to provide an updated and attractive entry into the increasingly crowded birding field guide competition. They have included, for example, some new plates illustrating the various introduced parrot species and some (surely not all) of the Eurasian vagrants that are reported in Alaska and along the west coast. There also is a fine illustration comparing the tail feather patterns of both common and accidental pipit species.

However, it seems apparent that the update to this guide was done on a fairly tight budget. Most disappointing is the sometimes mediocre reproduction of what otherwise are fine color illustration plates. Particularly in the shorebird, gull, and tern sections, the quality is simply not first-rate. Apparently sloppy reproduction work also can lead to some misleading visual information. For example, based upon the illustrations of the loon species, one might conclude that the summer Pacific loon has a greenish throat patch while that of the Arctic loon is purplish.

Still, overall, I have always liked this field guide simply because it is so very easy to carry and to use. Consequently, whereas other larger, heavier volumes may be what I study while preparing for a day in the field, the Golden guide provides me with the quick reference I might need while out in the field. As a handy pocket reference, I would continue to recommend that birders consider purchasing this field guide in its updated version.

2001 Edition -- Updated but we hoped for more, August 21, 2001
I have carried the older edition of this bird book for a number of years, and purchased this new one as the old one had become so dog eared as to be embarassing. Also we knew that many species ranges were changing, and wanted to be up to date on that information. The new edition has the same format (down to the exact page) as the previous, and same illustrations. The many advantages of this guide include:

1) It has every bird you are likely to see in North America 2) Everything about a species is on one page, including illustration, description, range map, and sonogram of song (for many species) 3) Nice comparison charts of similar and confusing species 4) Range maps include migration date lines 5) True pocket size -- you will carry this book with you in the field!

The new edition also has updated nomenclature for species that the bird expert powers-that-be keep changing on us. It also has updated range maps for those species whose ranges are changing. It is printed on a slicker stock than the previous (only time will tell if this is better). It also has a new "quick" index which is handy for locating birds by generic name (crows).

But there are some disappointments.

1) It is probably 95% a reprint of the previous edition, both with respect to descriptions and (particularly) illustrations 2) The little check boxes to mark off birds you have seen are missing from the new edition -- surely that was an oversight(?) 3) They did not correct the one thing that was a true weakness of the previous edition, that the range maps are small and rather difficult to interpret. How much easier it would be if the US state borders were overprinted on these little range maps (or for that matter Canadian provinces and Mexican states)???

But of course, it is still our favorite -- if you have only one bird book, and you want to carry it in your pocket, this is the one to buy.

Great artwork, presentation, and value, April 14, 1999
How they can sell this book at such a low price is beyond me. Lots of quality here.

Look at the cover with the buntings: it's not just some recycled art from the interior, but a specially painted picture just for the cover. This is part of the value that the authors offer you.

More importantly, the illustrations really capture what the birds look like in real life -- to my mind better than other paintings in guides and a thousand times better than photos -- and the text is clear and to the point.

Sections that showcase winter plumage of gulls or peeps or that illustrate the heads of warblers or sparrows have the page numbers right next to each picture so you can just whip over to bird in question if you need more information.

I especially like the fact that the range maps are right next to the bird's picture so you don't have to thumb to some inconvenient map index the back of the book only to find that the bird is never present in your area. Everything is right there to help you make a quick identification.

Unbeatable Value, December 24, 1999
There are bigger and more expensive bird guides but none pack as much information into such a portable, easy to use, inexpensive book as this. I've used it as a casual birder for several years. Among my favorite features are the taxonomic indicators (blue squares and circles indicating Order, Family and Sub Family or Genus), little bits of natural history (that some advanced guides assume you already know) and comparison silhouettes. I recommend this book to anyone wanting a first bird guide.

A relic, September 6, 2004
I birded with this book for years, not replacing it until 1983 and the arrival of NatGeo. Unfortunately, the two 'updates' it has undergone in the last twenty years are barely cosmetic, and the book is now embarrassingly outmoded even for beginners, who would be much better served by Sibley or Kaufman.
The thorough criticisms in Rich Stallcup's "Birds for Real," which appeared as a response to the first revision of the Golden Guide, remain valid. There are still a great many birds that will be simply unidentifiable using this guide; there is no excuse, for example, for not having the shorebird plates repainted to include the distinct juvenal plumages of the small Calidris, for example.
If you want a one-volume guide for use in the field, choose the Eastern or Western Sibley, the most sophisticated and most informative American field guides available. If your ambitions are more limited, if you are a 'backyard birder' or a 'feederwatcher' or just don't care about anything brown or far away, you will be very happy with Kenn Kaufman's "Focus Guide," with its accurate but brief texts and realistic illustrations.

Don't leave Home without it, April 19, 2000
"Birds of North America" is a truly excellent guide. It may not be the most comprehensive, but it certainly is the most useful. It's probably the all-around greatest birding field guide out there. The illustrations are very well done, and the size of the book is easily manageable. This book is detailed enough to accomodate all but the most demanding and professional birders, but user-friendly enough to not overwhelm the amateur.

I must say however, that the new St. Martin's Press re-printed is a travesty. I luckily have the 1983 printing with the original blue cover and the beautifully rendered pages. I've seen the "new" edition in the bookstore, and like many other reviewers I am very annoyed by the poor quality of the reproductions. The pictures and pages are now faded and off-colour.

I've recently been aquainted with the National Geographic bird guide, and I must admit it's a very good guide with pictures that are perhaps "sharper" than those in the Golden Guide. By today the Golden Guide is also a little out of date, due to many changes to avian nomenclature. However, one thing the NG guide will never match is the Golden Guide's immense readability. The NG guide is too detailed for its own good, and uses highly technical language that simply overwhelms the casual birder. I now tend to carry both books into the field, but the Golden Guide will always have a special place in my heart. I highly recommend it if you can find an old copy of the 1983 printing.

This is my second favorite birding guide., November 25, 1998
I have used this guide for 25 years. It is excellent for casual North American birders. It is compact, inexpensive and covers all birds normally found in North America. It has good illustrations of all birds one would normally encounter and good descriptions of the birds. It has some outstanding features found in no other birding guide such as heads of all sparrows on two facing pages so that they are all right there together where they can be easily compared. It has the same layout for winter peeps and fall warblers. This feature in itself makes the book worth having.

All on one page field guide beats all other formats, October 20, 1999
Tired of flipping from index to photo or illustration to description of one bird? This field guide gives you everything on pages facing one another. They also have a sonogram for bird calls and the best and most easily identifiable art work of any field guide I've ever seen.

Has some good features., October 18, 2000
I've had this field guide in my possession for quite a while. While it does have some good features, I still don't take it along with me into the field. The reason is that I don't have complete confidence in the full-color illustrations. I don't think that any of the illustrations are bad; however, I do find some of them to be fuzzy and unclear. That aside, there are other aspects of this field guide that I like better. This field guide covers all of the birds of North America--regular, casual, and accidental visitors are also included. There's also an informative introduction and a nice section on how to use the field guide. There's an illustration of the topography of a bird with its various parts pointed out. There are two other illustrations detailing the parts of a duck wing. The text information and range maps are on the left page, while the illustrations are on the right page. Habitat backgrounds are used in combination with the illustrations, too, while individual species in varying plumages are also represented. The length of the particular species of bird is shown next to the illustration. The average wingspan of larger flying or soaring birds is also included next to the illustration. Most birds normally seen in flight are illustrated in a flying position. The text information includes the common name, scientific name, abundance, habitat, description, behavior, and vocalizations. Besides the verbal descriptions of songs in the text, songs or calls of many birds are pictured by Sonagrams. There are separate sections that display illustrations of female ducks in flight, hawks in flight, winter plumage of smaller shorebirds, immature gulls, and immature terns. There are also two other separate sections dealing with warblers: one section shows illustrations of only the heads of spring male warblers with and without wing bars, and the other section displays illustrations of fall warblers. Also, another section shows sparrows with and without streaked breasts. This field guide also includes a bibliography and an index. The index of bird species can be used as a checklist for the species identified. A check-off box is situated next to each common-name entry for this purpose. Even though I don't take this field guide with me whenever I go birdwatching, I still find it to be a helpful back-up reference at home when I need to gather some additional information.

This is the BEST bird book out there!!, January 3, 1999
The Golden Guide to Field Indentifcation of Birds of North America is a handy, not to mention effective, guide to the birds. Accidentals, rarities, stragglers, and casuals are all covered, along with the common birds. This guide includes full color illustrations of birds were and how they are most often spotted, whether gliding over the ocean or perching in dense underbrush, as well as winter, summer, eclipse, immature, chick, juvenile, adult, male, female, breeding, non-breeding, molting, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd winter plumages, if need be. Any bird spotted can quickly be indentified quickly and easily with this guide. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The beekeeper's year begins with a late winter hive inspection and ends with "putting the bees to bed" in the autumn. Richard Bonney believes that each beekeeping activity should be performed with an eye toward the overall well-being of the colony, as part of an integrated year-round program of hive management.

Long-term success in beekeeping can only be achieved by understanding the intimate lives, behaviors, and motivations of honey bees -- the factors which govern the life of each colony. Richard Bonney explains the reasons behind common practices that many beekeepers perform without really knowing why. He also stresses when to take timely actions that will prevent problems in future seasons.

Hive Management offers concise, up-to-date information on the whole range of beekeeping tasks, including:

-- How to prevent, control, and capture swarms.

-- What you can tell from an outside inspection of your hives.

-- When and how to "take the crop" and harvest honey.

-- How to successfully requeen -- from handling and marking queens to methods of introducing one into a hive.

-- The problem signs to look for when you open up a hive.

For the practicing beekeeper who needs more information, or for the serious novice who wants to start out right, Hive Management offers sensible advice to help keep your honey bees thriving. 

Reviews

Nice general book, April 21, 2006
This is a very readable book - Bonney puts words together well. Not a "must have" in a beekeeper's library but a good general discussion of relevant topics. Assumes basic beekeeping knowledge. Overlaps with his beginner's book (Beekeeping: a Complete Guide); this would be aptly titled "Your Second Year as a Beekeeper."

This one is a keeper (pun intended)., April 5, 1999
In the past year I have borrowed from the library all the books I could find about beekeeping . This is one I plan to add to my personal library.

a must have, August 9, 2008
Hive Management written by Richard Bonney is awesome! This is not intended to be your first bee book, however I have read two other books and started my bees just under 1 year ago, so this was perfect timing. It's an easy read and makes sense for the non-PHD bee keeper. The only negative is there's not many pictures, but I would highly recomend this book to anyone with bees!

Bee Farmer, July 12, 2007
A good all round book.
The chapters lay it out for the reader, and if that reader is like me you will get a better understand of bees and their needs.
I suggest this book to anyone who is thinking about getting a few hives for the backyard BEFORE they do. Although bee keeping is a enjoyable passtime, there are things that need to be considered and this book will equip the reader with what they need to know. Good evening reading.

A stellar reference book for intermediate beekeepers, October 19, 2008
A well organized, sensible and rather complete book on beekeeping. Another must reference book for the beekeeper, new or experienced.
Great companion to another book "the backyard beekeeper" by Kim Flottum. Together, these two books will more than satisfy the needs of hobbyist beekeepers.

An excellent source for the beginner, September 30, 2009
As the first bee book out of the Amazon box which I'd ordered, I read this book from cover to cover in one sitting. Richard Bonney's knowledge, experience and dry humour make it an engaging read. Richard has some strong opinions on beekeeping and I don't believe that any novice beekeeper could go far wrong (especially those in the N.E. of the United States) by following his advice. Having said that, Richard himself makes it plain that what works for one beekeeper may not necessarily work for his immediate neighbour and always endeavors to present alternative methods for given tasks, even though he may not actually recommend using them. The main strengths of this book though, are Richard's obvious experience and his enthusiasm for his bees. Owning this book is like having a mentor by your side when you visit your hives and will certainly increase your confidence and comfort levels if you happen to be a beginning beekeeper and probably add to your knowledge-base of bee handling procedures, even if you're an "old hand".
Thank you, Richard!

Very helpfull, May 26, 2010
I bought three books at the same time, this one, his other one, "Beekeeping, a Practical Guide," and "Beekeeping for Dummies" They cover much of the same information but each has variations. All are readable and informative. I bought all three because beekeepers told me it was advisable to read several different books. I am glad I did. I ordered woodenware, but am too late to get bees this year. I will be well prepared when I do acquire them in the spring of 2011.

Great book for the 2nd year beekeeper, February 22, 2010
This book has good information on how to take good care of your hives during the winter and early spring. This is not a beginners book. This book goes one step past the beginners books to help you manage strong & healthy hives through all of the seasons. This book answered most of my questions that the beginners books did not. This book Should be read during the fall of your first year beekeeping so you can be knowledgeable & prepared for the winter & spring. I recommend this book for any one in their first couple years of beekeeping.

Great Book, January 12, 2009
An excellent addition to the bee library, writer assumes reader understands how to install package bees, otherwise, very comprehensive from a practical viewpoint, very pleased I bought it ~

A book with love and respect, February 4, 2009

My husband is the hand-on beekeeper, I am just the helper. Mr. Bonney's book is written with love and respect of his bees. I think one has to have these emotion to be a good keeper of bees or livestocks or pets or family.

His statement makes scientific (biological and physical sciences) sense. It tells WHY things are done in such such ways.Not just do this do that type of book.



... Read more

Editorial Review

*2003 National Outdoor Book Award Winner*Detailed track and trail data for 135 species with actual-size track illustrations in one section*Scat photos and data for dozens of animals

The most thorough treatment of the subject ever published, this amazing guide brings together clear track and trail illustrations, range maps, and full-color photographs showing feeding signs, scat, tunnels, burrows, bedding areas, remains, and more, to give a wealth of information about hundreds of mammal species living in North America. How to find, identify, measure, and interpret the clues mammals leave behind--explained and illustrated like never before. Includes essays that contextualize tracking as a developing science continually garnering more interest and participation; included also are instructive anecdotes from the author's work as a tracker and wildlife expert. An invaluable resource for beginning or professional trackers and wildlife enthusiasts in all North American locations. ... Read more

Reviews

A scientifically credible look at tracking, October 12, 2003
Mark Elbroch's new book is a scientifically credible look at tracking

The tracking world has once again gained a great resource in the new book by Mark Elbroch. "Mammal Tracks and Sign: A Guide to North American Species" fills a gap in the availability of good quality photographic guides to tracks and sign. This is a book for the serious tracker! At 784 pages, it is the most complete guide available today on the subject. The tracking world has long awaited a book to rival Olaus Murie's "A Field Guide to Animal Tracks," which has been the field standard for years. Elbroch's book covers some new ground, bringing together coverage of subjects that previously were found only in specialized, and not widely available, publications. These include: mammal remains, a large section of sign on vegetation, identification of kills, burrows/beds/lays/nests, and a big photographic section on scat and other secretions. The very complete section on gaits will help you identify those difficult trails. Photos, drawings, measurements, and range maps are included for each species. Throughout the text are sidebars with tips to distinguish between easily confused species. This is especially useful if you have ever found yourself struggling with an identification in the field. The appendices list other tracking resources for further study, including schools, books, web sites, tracking teachers, and more.

The book is a little heavy to tote into the field, but it offers so much information that it may be prudent to buy two; one to haul into the field and bang around, and one to keep at home for reference. Its weight is compensated for by the fact that it has information you would find in many different field guides all in one book, so you can leave the others at home and bring this one along. It sets a new standard for tracking as a science and brings it new credibility that may help increase its use as a tool for wildlife management.

The initial price may be discouraging to many trackers, but in the end, I think you will find it is money well spent. There are many books on tracking out there, quite a few with poor drawings, inaccuracies, or errors. Although those books are much less expensive, and are probably better "mass market" sellers, a tracker needs accurate information, and this book provides it. This book is destined to become one of my favorites, and one I will recommend when people ask me which book to purchase.

I think you will agree that Mark's two new books are great additions to the tracking library, and offer the serious tracker valuable resources, although these are not books that will sit on the shelf and gather dust. They are the books that will become worn and dog-eared from being hauled into the field and used. I look forward to using them in years to come as I further my own knowledge of the unlimited field of tracking.

Take this book with you when you go into the field!, January 30, 2005
I have never really "tracked" animals before but recognition and identification of animal signs is part of my job. I recently received my copy of this book and in just the first few minutes of thumbing through it I can see that my money was well spent. The scope of this book is amazing... as its name states, its a guide to North American mammals and it covers them well from Florida to Alaska. Though the author states in his review below that there are 1058 color photos, it seems there is much more. With nearly 800 pages and most pages containing 2-4 photos, there is no shortage of of illustrations to reinforce the text. And speaking of text, the explanations of tracks and other signs are well detailed and typically include comparisons and notes on confusables. The author even includes notes about the habits of the animal which will help the reader understand how to better track it. Regarding a review below that suggests the need for a scale with the photos, the author uses pennies as scale for small tracks and scat while the larger signs I find sufficiently scaled against the background. And there is always a size description in the text in both English and metric units.

Its hard to pin down what I most enjoy about this guide but I think it would come down to two things: First, the explanation of how to interpret tracks. The first 80 or so pages I think will really get a novice started on understanding how a track is left and how to interpret them. Second, the book is broken into sections. The bigger portion of the book contains track information but also in separate sections you get detailed information on beds/denning/nesting, scat/urine, feeding signs, etc... There is a brief section on mammal remains which I would like to see expanded but that's only a wish list item, not a gripe.

I think the detail in this book will really impress the reader. As nerdy as this may sound, I haven't been this excited about a field guide in a long time. I'm really anxious to get this book in the field... oh, and speaking of taking it to the field, yes its a large book at a bit over 1.5" thick and nearly 3 lbs but slap a book cover on it and haul it with you. There's too much information in here to leave it at the house or even the base camp.

You can't get a better tracking book, December 5, 2004
I work at an outdoor youth camp and this book has quickly become the favorite tracking book we have. It has taken over our Peterson guide as THE BOOK we need to take along on our hikes. Well done, great photography, and more information that can be had from one reading. Mine became so beat up I bought another.

We own every tracking book there is here and this and Elbroch's "Bird Sign" are our favorites. They are a little bit more pricy than other track/sign books, but well worth the cost.

National Outdoor Book Award Winner, December 29, 2003
I am the author of this book. Just a few comments and news:

Mammal Tracks and Sign is the recipient of a 2003 National Outdoor Book Award: Winner in the Nature Guidebooks competition. NOBA's comments can be read in full at http://www.isu.edu/outdoor/books/ and include:
"Mammal Tracks and Sign is one of the most thorough and complete guides to animal tracking ever published...It's a monumental effort and an invaluable reference for anyone who enjoys tracking and viewing wildlife."

I've awarded the book five stars not for myself-although I'm proud of the achievement-but for Stackpole Books, the publisher. When you hold this book, feel its weight, and flip through the 1058 color photos, over 300 illustrations and close to 800 pages, consider the material costs of such an endeavor-the investment and the risk for a publisher. Stackpole committed to creating the most comprehensive guide to mammal tracking in North America, and possibly the world. I think they've done it. It is beautiful and far exceeds previous publications on tracking; it stands as a testimonial to the importance of saving wildlife tracking skills around the globe. My thanks to Stackpole Books for unending support and enthusiasm.

(Funny enough, 115 pages were cut from the initial layout, to address concerns over the strength of the resulting binding.)

The most comprehensive tracking guide available!, September 7, 2003
This book is astounding! The number and quality of the pictures is nothing short of amazing while the breadth of detailed tracking information is unparalleled. This guide is the most comprehensive one out there and should be in every tracker/naturalists backpack and bookshelf. Full of information never before printed it can help you answer many questions you may have while in the field. I love it and bought two, one for home and one for the woods!

The Only Book You'll Need, August 31, 2004
This is probably one of the best books I've ever purchased as an avid nature enthusiast.

I have several animal tracking books, including Paul Rezendes', Tracking and the Art of Seeing, and this book is even better. The real photographs of tracks, scat, den sites, and kill sites of mammals (and birds) are second to none.

I reference this book often in the field while hiking. I live in New Jersey where the bobcat is an endangered species, and thanks to this book, I was able to accurately identify both a bobcat's den and a recent kill site on a rocky ridge in a nearby state park. It was quite an exciting find.

I would recommend this book time and time again!

Mammal Tracks & Sign, September 8, 2003
When Darwin wrote the "Origin of Species" it was eventually refered to as the BOOK, being the undisputed standard reference on the subject. Mark Elbroch's "Mammal Tracks& Sign" will likewise become the standard referance on the subject of Animal Tracking, and likewise should be called "The BOOK"!!!! It has raised the bar to a very high, and professional, level and offers a wealth of knowledge,insight and wisdom to the tracking world. Well done likewise to Stackpole Books who have spared no efforts toward creating a most pleasing, and beautiful, layout!!!
I have been tracking for many years, and have been likewise teaching the Art & Science of Tracking to secondary school students for the past 12 years, and find this book to be the best possible tool that I could ever imagine having. In a time where education is being called upon to inculcate a new awareness of life into the curriculum, and to generate a new sense of hope and purpose in our collective vision for the future, this book is a blessing. Science, rather then the dry and detached technological view that many experience it as, can become the most wonderful tool for exploring the magic and mystery that life constantly holds for us. We need only break out of old patterns of thought, and explore new territory. Tracking, as an Art and Science, has accomplished this for me as an educator, and has been a catylist for many of the students that I am responsible for in terms of preparing them to be aware, outwardly as well as inwardly. Mark Elboch's "Mammal Tracks & Sign" is a must have for all those working in the field, and the "BOOK" for any educator (elementary through PhD) who wants to push their own art of bringing the world to life for their students. Buy this book, and head for the woods!!!

The best of the best, January 29, 2004
This book is it! I have been tracking for about a year now and i recently baught this book and it is the best i have seen. it is both handy in the field and at home moreover the personal accounts from mark are fabulous and add an important dimension to tracking that illustrates his thinking that most books leave out. I have been studying deer in my area and this book has been by far the most helpful of all the books i have used. Thanks Mark!

Best wildlife tracking reference yet!, November 6, 2003
Mark Elbroch is one of the best trackers I know, and this is by far the best tracking reference for North America you can buy. This book is both accurate and FUN, as Mark shares his stories from the field, wonderful photos and detailed research.

As another reviewer noted, the sheer size and weight of this book make it heavy for field work, but it is definitely a must-have for any wildlife tracker or naturalist. It is more comprehensive than other tracking guides, and well laid out. Great reading, too, for those long,stormy winter days when you can't be out tracking. Well worth the price- don't miss this one!!

Excellent resource, June 8, 2007
This book has great photos of scat, prints, and other animal sign. I was able to use it to definitively identify otter scat on my property. Information is grouped by type of sign, so all the scat pictures are together, for example, and those are subdivided by how they look (pellets, amorphous, etc.). For many animals there are several examples of scat showing what you might see if the animal had been eating berries, or meat, or whatever. In addition to the photographs are drawings and scale data, and other information about animals and their habits. Though as you can tell, I mostly use it for scat identification. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Author Linda Runyon lived off of the land in the wilderness of Upstate NY for years, feeding her family with wild edible plants. She has paid her dues and learned the hard way so you don't have to. With this book, you will learn how to see and use the abundance that surrounds us everywhere plants grow. You won't look at the world the same way again, and you will never fear hunger.The book is 320 jam-packed pages, profusely illustrated by the author. You will learn how to identify, gather, prepare, store and enjoy an endlessly nutritious and renewable resource. The book is full of data, charts, nutritional breakdowns, and a poisonous look-alike section. There are many clear black & white photos as well as line drawings for identification. After you gather your bounty, there's even delicious recipes!The majority of the plants are found in ALL 50 states, and, indeed, most of the world. A few are unique to the East or the West United States.Opinion leaders in this subject agree that Linda is the teacher and this is the book. Linda teaches her subject with authority. Her experience of homesteading without stores, electricity and modern conveniences led to the creation of this ultimate wild food survival guide."The Essential Wild Food Survival Guide" will become your valuable companion on the path to healthful living. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The Stokes Beginners Guides, intended for beginning nature lovers of all ages, offer a wealth of identification and behavior information in a portable pocket-sized format. Illustrated throughout with full-color photographs and range maps, each Beginners Guide is organized according to the Stokes easy-to-use and popular color-tab system. Acclaimed bird and nature authorities, Donald and Lillian Stokes have written more than 22 books. They divide their time between Carlisle, Massachusetts, and Sanibel, Florida. ... Read more

Reviews

Excellent Bat Book!, November 27, 2003
Last Christmas I got a Bat Detector (from Bat Conservation International). The instructions with it were very poor so I asked a local naturalist if she knew of any good bat books and specifically any that would indicate what frequency to tune the bat detector in to for our local bats. She recommended this book and its terrific! There's a short section up front that talks about bats and how they echolocate as well as the frequencies that they do it at so this was perfect for me and my bat detector (boy is it cool!). The real meat of the book is an id guide with great pictures and interesting information about each ofthe different species of bats - similar to a bird id book. Since bats are genenerally out at dusk and they fly so fast I haven't been able to make use of the pictures and actually id the bats but I've narrowed it down by where we live and what we're likely to see so its fun to have a reference to read about them more specifically. Excellent excellent book and a must have if you've just gotten a bat detector and need to know what frequency to tune into. Highly recommended!

cute little leathery mammal guys, July 2, 2006
The fact that you're reading this review indicates that you already know that bats are good guys, not bad guys. 'Nuff said.

Next thing, you'd probably like to have a bunch (they only come in quantities) in your yard. OK, then start with this Stokes guide.

It's bedecked with stunning photos and a cool set of symbols that tell you about migrational (with apologies to Monty Python) patterns, roosting preference, how they fly, and what the little guys like to munch on.

The Stokes Guide will also tell you how to make a bat house so they have a decent place to crash, but you might just as well buy one inexpensively at your local quality birding shop.

You can't go wrong with this attractively presented Beginner's Guide to Bats.

good info, September 11, 2009
I got this to go with a bat house that I gave my dad for Christmas. I was glancing through the book and saw that it is full of information and is easy enough to read without getting too detailed. I think this is a great book for a bat beginner!

Little Book with Big Information, May 15, 2008
I have yet to go wrong with any of the little Stokes beginner's guides, and this one is no exception. Full of good information, excellent photos accompanied by reference icons and range maps. If you are just getting into learning about bats, this is the book to have, and if you already love them and just need a very portable field guide, this is an easy one to take along. It is simple enough to interest kids, but informational enough for any adult. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Twenty thousand copies of the first edition of this book were sold. An attractive and comprehensive guidebook, this work has been completely revised and updated by the author. The reader will find an easy-to-use text which details the natural history of the plants and animals found in the Galapagos Islands. Management and conservation of the Galapagos National Park is discussed, and visitor information and notes about the various tourist sites are given. An index and checklist of plants and animals with page references and a glossary of technical terms are provided. New photographs have been added. ... Read more

Reviews

Undoubtedly the best overview of "Darwin's Islands"., May 20, 1998
I am a biologist that has been working in the Galapagos as a Naturalist leading tours there for the last 6 years. Michael Jackson's book is the "Bible" for the beginning naturalist and certainly more than adequate for the casual "ecotourist". Jackson covers all major aspects of the history, geology, ecology, and biology of the islands. In the "biology" section, he gives a clear, concise, but thorough group-by-group treatment of all major taxa including plants, reptiles, land and sea birds, mammals, and a brief section covering marine life. While there are other guidebooks available, none come close to the accuracy, clarity of presentation, and logical format of this book. Of particular usefulness are the many photos, tables, and graphs which provide a visual representation of many of the topics discussed and a synthesis of large amounts of data.

The one book needed when travelling to the galapagos, August 14, 2000
I just recently returned from the Galapagos Islands, and the book that guided me throughout my journey was this book by M.H. Jackson. Very easy to find the animal you are looking, and also helps to discover more creatures to look for. Helped explain things further from what the guides had said. Also helped me in answering many people's questions about different creatures. A Great book! A must for all travelers to the galapagos in search of unique wildlife.

A wonderful introduction to the life of this fantastic place, April 29, 2006
My wife and I bought Jackson's book in preparation for a trip to the Galapagos. The book served us well; when we arrived at the islands we felt that we were almost on a first-name basis with all the fantastic creatures and plants that make the Galapagos such a fascinating place. The book is considerably more than just a field guide; it includes information on the islands' history, their environmental and ecological setting, and the conservation efforts being made to preserve this truly unique place. And, as the title indicates, the book provides a lot of natural history, not just a brief summary of bare facts about each animal or plant. Not only is it a fine guide, it is a most enjoyable read.

The Guide's bible on the Galapagos, August 10, 2004
Every naturalist guide in the Galapagos has this book. They also sell this book at the Charles Darwin Center in Santa Cruz, and it is a must read. It explains how the islands came about and what makes them so unique. I highly recommend this book!

Outstanding Resource, July 16, 2007
I would imagine that most visitors to the Galapaos are not naturalists. For those without a strong background in natural sciences, I would highly recommend this book. The book is easy and fun to read, detailed without being tedious. The photos are amazing and the author's passion for the islands is evident. If you only have time to read one book, this is one I would advise a Galapagos visitor to read in advance of their trip.

preparing for a trip to the galapagos, March 26, 2009
This is the perfect book to purchase before visiting the Galapagos Islands! In fact our travel company had recommended the book. Both colored and black and white pictures are interspered between sections of text, making the book easy to read.

Great book, May 28, 2010
This was recommended by National Geographic as a "must read" before my trip to the Galapagos. It prepared me to take advantage of NatGeo Naturalists' extensive knowledge of the islands.

Galapagos Natural History, April 10, 2010
An easy read for anyone that really enhances your Galapagos experience. It was great to have a base of knowledge when listening to the naturalist guides and read more details after the day's excursions. Loved it. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The 4th edition (published 2010) of the 16-inch diameter plastic Guide to the Stars chart (formally called the David H. Levy Guide to the Stars) is an instrument to help you identify the constellations. You simply dial-in your observing time and date to find the set of constellations visible in your sky (this is accomplished by turning the clear top piece). Although this chart is designed for beginners, seasoned amateur astronomers will find it useful, too.

This chart can be used anywhere in the world between latitudes 30 and 60 degrees North, which includes the US and Canada, England, Europe, Northern China and Japan.

The 16-inch diameter is large and easy to read, ideal for families, teachers and seniors! The 4th edition has been improved by indicating more binocular objects and providing more pertinent information on the back, all without increasing clutter or decreasing the text size.

The front chart indicates 70 Constellations, the Names of 55 Stars, the Milky Way Band, the Ecliptic (which is the path of the Sun, Moon and Planets), 54 favorite Double Stars, the Summer Triangle, Winter/Summer Tours and 56 Galaxies, Star Clusters and Nebulae that can be observed with binoculars or a small telescope. Additionally, favorite star patterns are noted, like the Great Square of Pegasus, the Circlet of Pisces, the Northern Cross of Cygnus and others.

On the back side, there are useful tables and other astronomical information, including: Mythology, Yearly Meteor Showers, Moon map, Phases of the Moon, Facts about the Planets, A Short history of Astronomy, the 10 Brightest Stars, Information about the Binocular & Telescope Objects (those on the chart), Why Stars Twinkle, additional instructions for using the chart and more.

PLANET NOTE. Most star charts, like this one, do not indicate, on the chart, the position of the Planets or Moon because these objects move through the constellations of the zodiac, along a path in the sky called the Ecliptic (indicated on the chart). Website support is provided to help identify the planets that are visible in the sky.

This chart is also available in a smaller 11-inch diameter (ISBN 1-928771-03-3). And, there is a low-cost kid's version printed in color on sturdy card-like paper (ISBN 1-928771-22-X). Finally, there is the Equatorial Guide to the Stars for use in and around the equator (ISBN 1-928771-77-7). ... Read more

Reviews

A Great Way to Learn the Nighttime Sky, July 9, 2001
For the beginning amateur astronomer there is no better aid to learning the stars and constellations than a planisphere - and I think David Levy's new rendition of this old device is as good as they come.

Basically a planisphere is starmap printed on one of two plastic disks which are joined together in the center and free to rotate. Around the edge of one disk are the days of the year while the other disk has the hours of the day. By setting the time, on one disk, opposite the date on the other, it is possible for you to see the sky, through a window in the top disk, as it would appear at that particular day and time.

There are several thing about David Levy's planisphere that recommend it. To begin with it is BIG, 16 inches in diameter to be precise, and the printing is large and easy to read. Secondly, it is a good representation of the sky showing only those stars visible to the unaided eye. Finally, the reverse side contains information about the Moon, planets, meteor showers and a listing of interesting galaxies and star clusters visible in binoculars or a small telescope. If you are a beginning "Stargazer", or thinking about becoming one, this should be your first acquisition.

a very decent jumbo planisphere, December 7, 2003
Pros:

-all plastic (not paper or laminated paper)...won't get soggy if it gets wet
-kids will probably like the jumbo 16" diameter size (it is also available in 11" diameter size)
-useful information on the front and back (like meteor shower dates)
-works for latitudes between 30 and 60 degrees North
-several lesser-known stars are named; for example Zaurak, Sabik and Algorab
-a lot less crowded than smaller planispheres

Cons:

-For its jumbo size, I was expecting more celestial objects & detail...the dimmer, harder-to-find Messier objects are not shown. But it looks like it was designed more for beginners, in which case this makes good sense.
-Messier objects are marked by a letter, and you must flip the planisphere over to 'decipher' the letter. For example, M35 in Gemini is simply labelled as 'H'. It should just be labelled as 'M35' on the front in the first place.
-sometimes the same letter represents two or three seperate Messier objects. For example, M36, M37, and M38 in Auriga are all designated by three seperate letter 'F's. The description on the back distinguishes them seperately, but it's annoying.
-floppy due to it being relatively thin for its size

A planisphere like this is essenial for beginners to learn the night sky. If you are more advanced and need more detail, get a star map (but you'll probably still use your planisphere too).

fun, February 3, 2006
I have nothing else to compare this plainesphere with as this is my first one. This is a very fun and quick way to learn the constellations as well as the most popular Messier objects. On the back of this chart, there are tables and other information. The author explains which objects are visable with the naked eye, binoculars or telescopes.

Don't be intimidated by the appearance of this chart, learning to use it is very easy because all you do is match up the time of day with the date. Once you do that, you have a replica of the night sky in your hands.

Make sure you buy the chart for the correct lattitude and hemisphere!

David Levy planesphere, May 10, 2007
This planesphere is larger than most:28cm diameter. It has just the right amount of detail to be used in the dark with a torch unlike two others that I have tried,one too detailed and one too small. Contellations are clearly drawn and labeled. Equally useful to a beginner or experienced sky watcher. I am delighted with it.

Great For Fun All Year Long!, May 14, 2007
This is awesome for kids of all ages! It is very well made & will last a long time.

Levy's planisphere, May 2, 2008
Large size (nearly twice the size of most available) makes this one of the best planispheres available on the market for the beginner and all other levels. Added bonus is that you can use this one laying flat on your table or lap and you don't have to hold it over your head to use it like most others. Cover the back with clear packing tape and you have a water resistant product. I just wish i found this one first before i tried all the other ones. Great product for the amateur telescope user.

Nifty BIG planisphere, February 13, 2010
I joined my local chapter of the Astronomical League [...]/ last year the Howard Astronomical League [...]/ and started working on my Constellation Hunter Club. My wife got me Terence Dickonson's Nightwatch Nightwatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe [NIGHTWATCH 4/E] for Christmas. The new edition is awesome, much better than the 1997 edition, but the charts didn't cover the whole sky.

David Levy's Guide to the Stars planisphere is a perfect addition. It is BIG with big print so it is easy to read in the dark under a red light (to preserve night vision). It is also plastic, unlike many planispheres, so that it holds up to dewy nights or being dropped in the snow accidentally. I'm halfway done the Constellation Hunter list and this planisphere will be really helpful finding some of the harder, fainter constellations just coming into view.

Biggest planisphere I have ever seen!!, January 24, 2009
I first caught a glimpse of this beast when another member of the local astronomy club had one out and I was immediately intrigued by it's size. I went right out and bought it and I bring it to almost all of my events. It's great for kids, and adults! The text is very large and easy to read because it's not all squished in.

One of my favorite things is that it even displays cool Binocular and small telescope objects for beginners, and lots of other useful information.

I would recommend this planisphere over every other one I have seen simply because it's so easy to use and read. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The first comprehensive field guide to freshwater fishes - covers all 790 species known in the United States and Canada. More than 700 illustrations, most in color, show identifying marks.Also includes 377 distribution maps and additional drawings of key details. ... Read more

Reviews

Finishing the Trilogy, October 29, 2001
It might interest the reader of this review (since your looking at the book) to know that while fresh water only represents about 1% of the available aquatic habitat on earth over half of the known species of fish live in it. I'll leave it up to you to find out why. Peterson Field Guides have a winning formula, find an expert, set them up with a good illustrator and see what comes out. This book finishes the trio that covers all of the fishes likely to be encountered by a North American fisherman, diver or naturalist. Like the Fishes of the Atlantic Coast and the Fishes of the Pacific Coast it is well organized, well written, all inclusive (of species) and as informative as space will allow. If you are curious about fishes in general or encounter fresh water fish with any kind of regularity you owe it to yourself to find out what they are. And, if you live in North America you should have this book.

The definitive guide to freshwater fishes., November 1, 1998
This volume by Page and Burr is the definitive guide to freshwater fishes of North America, written by two leading ichthyologists. The illustrations are excellent, the distribution maps are useful, and the data are precise. If you're looking for a fieldguide to freshwater fishes, buy this one before any other.

The best field guide written for freshwater fishes., March 10, 1999
It is by far the best field guide for freshwater fishes in North America. Each description of the fish are accurate and the plate drawings are great.

A Field Guide to Freshwater Fishes, November 7, 2000
This book has informed me on the many fishes I catch ranging from California to New York. Every year when I go down to Arkansas I alwyas bring it with me on my fishing journeys so that I no whati am catching. It has over 700 illistrations and over 300 maps. In all of my searching for book this has been the most helpful book I have used. I recamend buying it for yourself. It will help you alot.

An indispensible guide to fish, February 28, 2006
I perform wildlife surveys for corporations all over the east coast. Half the weight of my equipment is Peterson Field Guides, which give me quick and easy identification of flora and fauna found and often eliminates the need for dicotomous keys and microscope work. This particular guide has helped me puzzle out a lot of small fish I come across. Well written, excellant illustrations, an important part of my library.

ID only, September 13, 2000
Do not expect more than ID from the book. It is excellent at ID but that is all you will get for sure. I bought it for ID and it serves the purpose very well. One must also question the range maps since as explained in the text of the book they are compromised.

Five stars!, January 16, 2007
Great book with lots of pictures of species. I hoped that there would be photos for EACH species of fish but there was not. Each fish is documented though even if there is no picture for each. Many species are shown. I still have to give it 5 stars. This book is a great size too. It is not oversized. Perfect for travel.

A waste of money, October 6, 2006
This book may be of interest to an icthyolgist, but it's not much use to a fisherman. The color illustrations are very poor. They all have a washed out yellowish tint, and thus the illustrated fish tend to look all alike. The non color illustrations are better, but the book relies mostly on descriptions. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Building on the success of their previous book, White and Folkens' The Human Bone Manual is intended for use outisde the laboratory and classroom, by professional forensic scientists, anthropologists and researchers.The compact volume includes all the key information needed for identification purposes, including hundreds of photographs designed to show a maximum amount of anatomical information.

* Features more than 500 color photographs and illustrations in a portable format; most in 1:1 ratio
* Provides multiple views of every bone in the human body
* Includes tips on identifying any human bone or tooth
* Incorporates up-to-date references for further study
... Read more

Reviews

Fantastic guide., February 12, 2006
This manual is a somewhat more consise version of Dr. White's Osteology textbook. Excellent for anyone with any need to understand the human skeleton in depth. Clearly and assessibly written and includes fantastic pictures, indexes of directional terms, etc. Used widely on archaeological digs the world over.

Handy book, July 21, 2006
As a physical anthropology grad student, I am finding this book to be very useful. The hardcover text is great, but this is transportable and packed with information. Would highly recommend it to anyone in forensics, anthropology.

The Human Bone Manual, February 28, 2006
this book would be best accompanied by an anatomy book. To really get a good visual, it's a good idea to review muscle attachments and origin sites in a(n additional) book with color.so My biggest criticism (and it's so easy to criticize) is that while many of the bones are pictured the as the actual size, there are not photographs of the bones articulated with neighboring bones. I found it hard to side bones because of this. So, it's a pretty good book in spite of my harshness, just not by itself.

The Human Bone Manual, October 14, 2007
Excellent reference for travelling and field work as it's half the size of the original edition. I have the original and bought this anyway. The photography is excellent and it gives you a number of views of each element, and examples of normal variation. It also manages not to leave out anything important even though it is smaller (I compared the chapters with the larger edition). But don't rely on this for exhaustive terminology; it's not meant to be a dictionary.

This book makes my bones rattle. In a good way., September 30, 2008
As far as forensic books go, it's very well-written, with good illustrations, and is very cost-efficient and easy to carry around. Aimed at field work, so the pointers (i.e. which bones are potentially confused with others) are very helpful. Could use some color and more diagrams, but for the price I paid for it, I'm not complaining.

Forensic Primer, August 28, 2008
This 'pocket' edition offers the forensic student and professional a handy and detailed field manual. The book is broken into two main sections, the beginning chapters offer an introduction to the science of forensics while the later chapters cover in precise detail the bones and their features systematically. A handy scale and comprehensive chapters on ethics, recovery and modification via animals and weathering makes this volume valuable for the archaeologist. Black and white photographs express bone topography from several angles and from the same individuals to maintain scale and morphology. The brief glossary could be expanded with definitions for basic Latin and Greek scientific terms for beginner students.

Bone Book, February 24, 2009
Everything a person would want to know about human bones. Well written and the illustrations are first class. I highly recommend it.

The Human Bone Manual, December 6, 2008
This smaller sized and waterproofed manual is a excellent portable bone guide for anyone working in archaeology.

Good reference for overall study of forensic osteology, November 5, 2006
This book was quite helpful in the sense that it gives you an overall knowlege of forensic osteology. If you need a book on forensic osteology, this is one of the books that I would suggest. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Expert advice on freshwater aquarium fish.

Illustrated in full color, this comprehensive reference includes 500 of the most popular freshwater aquarium fish. It provides concise at-a-glance information on their behavior, diet and breeding, along with a recommended aquarium setup. Practical and well organized, this book is tailored to the needs of a wide range of freshwater-aquarium hobbyists.

A key decision for the aquarium owner, and also one of the most fun to make, is choosing the fish for a tank. 500 Freshwater Aquarium Fish is a "window shopping" trip, with an expert alongside to offer crucial advice. This thorough directory details every appropriate species. While most of the fish featured require a heated aquarium, there are other popular varieties, such as goldfish, that can be kept in an unheated one.

With more than 500 color photographs, the book is organized by major fish groups, among them:- Cichlids, including angelfish and discus- Catfish- Cyprinids, including barbs, danios, koi and goldfish- Characoids, including tetras, neons and piranhas- Oaches and suckers- Gouramis, including bettas, paradise fish and snakeheads- Rainbow fish and blue-eyes- Livebearers, including mollies and platies.

This comprehensive and useful reference, edited by a highly respected expert, will be welcomed by amateur fishkeepers of any age and expertise. ... Read more

Reviews

Great text, August 20, 2006
This is a great reference text for some common species as well as the unknown ones; especially if you want a quick reference of a variety of species to create a "species" or "community" tank this book will be helpful in decision making. The book gives good details regarding the expected size of the fish, general behavior and environment just to name a few. The photos contained within the text are well detailed. I would recommend this book to beginners and intermediate aquarists.

Packed with in-depth detail perfect for setting up an aquarium., March 4, 2007
The same format graces Greg Jennings' 500 FRESHWATER AQUARIUM FISH: A VISUAL REFERENCE TO THE MOST POPULAR SPECIES. Over 500 species and varieties are covered with basic facts on size, behavior, diet, aquarium and breeding conditions accompanying a full-color, full-page facing photo. Any home or library collection strong in aquarium references - and many a fish store - will find this packed with in-depth detail perfect for setting up an aquarium.

Good, but could be better, May 9, 2008
Yes, there's probably every bit of 500 fish in this book, but it still lacks on a few of the more common species. It is also a little too vague on descriptions. There is a 4 page spread on Discus and Oscars, but that's not really necessary when all the other fish are given one page with one sentence descriptions.
It's still nifty to have at home, but if you want to see how the fish are going to cohabitate with your other tank mates, this is not your book.

best fish book I've seen!, February 8, 2008
I have been searching high and low for a book on only freshwater fish, and here it is! the information is valuable, the pictures are great, and they have a ton of fish in it!

I havent found a book in any store that even compares to this.

I highly reccomend it to anyone that owns, or wants to own, freshwater fish!

Not what I expected, February 28, 2008
This book is very compact and the images of good quality. It is a lot smaller than I expected, though. Each page features one fish variety, with a photo and some basic info. The amount of information that fits onto such a tiny page is very limited. Despite the small size, the book is hardcover, thick and heavy and does not qualify as a pocket guide. I don't quite get what the idea was here : it is neither pocketguide, nor large glossy reference/ coffee table book. If I had actually seen the book before purchase, I would not have bought it...

Great basic reference book, April 20, 2008
I owm saltwater fish but had gotten rusty on freshwater. I needed to relearn this for my new job so this book helped me get back on track. Information is very clear and pictures are excellent. It gave me a quick primer. I think it also a good beginners book since it is easy to understand.

A HANDY LITTLE BOOK, March 18, 2010
This is a beautiful little volume. I only gave it 4 stars because of its diminutive size (6x6) which makes it hard to hold while reading. Otherwise, it is a very concise atlas of the more common species of aquarium fishes along with a description of temperment and a brief summation of the proper conditions under which they must be kept. There is a small 3x4 photo of each species included. All in all, it's a very beautiful albiet small book that any fish hobbiest would enjoy owning.

This book must be in every aquarist's library., May 16, 2009
This is a great reference book for any serious aquarist.

I am still a beginner aquarist, and on my first attempt at an aquarium, many of my fish died. The problem was that I mixed different types of fish together. For example, I had Angelfish, Discus, and Gold fish, together with three other types, all in one tank. That was not very wise. The Gold fish were eating the smaller fish (though the pet shop told me they wouldn't), and many who were not eaten died of bite wounds.

I removed the Gold fish and kept the other fish together. Still, six out of the eight Discus died. I couldn't figure out why. There were no fish bigger than them in the aquarium. On further reading, I realized that the water temperature was the culprit. Discus like warm water, anywhere from 26 to 30 Celsius, even slightly warmer for breeding. Angelfish, however, prefer temperatures up to 28 Celsius, and not higher. The other types of fish had their water temperature requirements as well. The water temperature in my aquarium was too low for the Discus.

I removed the Discus fish and put them in an aquarium on their own with a water temperature of 30 Celsius. They seem to be very happy! It is to be hoped that I'll get little baby Discus soon!

This book gave me details about the fish I have and how to create their specific habitat. Water temperature, as mentioned above, is very important, but there are other important factors as well. For example, Discus fish like water that is soft and acid. I put driftwood in my tank to achieve this water quality. I also heavily planted (with real plants) the back and sides of my aquarium. Discus like a densely planted environment. They like to lay their eggs vertically on plants or rocks. So I added natural rocks as well. Discus also like to be within their species. Putting one or two discus in an aquarium is not wise. The Discus might survive, but they won't be happy, and this will show on their body color (usually faint colors). Put a minimum of eight Discus together and they will manifest beautiful skin colors.

Where do I get all this information? From this book of course! This book should be in every aquarist's library.

Good Quick Reference, March 22, 2009
Good quick reference for the fresh water aquarist looking for a portable guide. This is mainly a guide to fish species and has very little information concerning tanks, filtration, etc... Information on temperment and other important traits is sufficient to help the aquarist make intelligent choices for tankmates. I would have given it 5 stars but the book was not exactly what I was expecting in the way of the amount of information, but again, as a portable quick reference it is very good.

Portable easy to find information, but just not enough of it, April 5, 2008
This book is good for a quick referencing look at fishes of your interest. The information is adequate for a quick look but not enough if you wnat to know more.Nice, big,clear, colorful pictures that is easy to look at and quick and easy to read basic information about the fish is also included like water temp. max. length, aggreesiveness. It's a great book for a beginner like me who wants to compare different fishes and know a little bit about them for now. ... Read more

Editorial Review

From a stop-action photograph of the amazing flying squirrel to Big Horn Sheep perched on a rock face, this guide puts the world of mammals in your hands. Illustrated with more than 300 full-color photographs, each species account includes information on physical characteristics, size, similar species, breeding, tracks and other signs, habitat, and range, as well as commentary on feeding, nesting, and other behaviors. Easy-to-read range maps, detailed anatomical illustrations of different mammals, track illustrations, and a state-by-state location guide make this the decisive authority on North American mammals. ... Read more

Reviews

One of the Best of Its Kind, August 17, 2000
I have several Audubon field guides, but this is the best of them all in my opinion. In this book, the editors made a wise decision to write more expansive descriptions, including a lot of information about the animal's behavior, eating habits, breeding, migration, and, often, its conservation status. The editors also show a sensitivity to man-made trends. For example, the domstic cat is listed here, as well as wild horses. In the former case, human carelessness has actually created a viable, but problematic, animal species; in the latter, humans intentionally let loose hundreds of horses at the end of the "wild west" days, and the animals have now actually found a niche.

The editors also did an excellent job of including rare species (such as the lynx and bobcat) as well as very common species (such as all the different kinds of squirrels).

It is unlikely that most amateur naturalists would have a chance to actually encounter every mammal in this book, so it is great to have a reference like this. Like other Audubon field guides, just reading the descriptions is fascinating. I would venture to guess that most people will discover species they never knew about, or learn new facts about what they thought were familiar species. Some of my favorites are the wolverine and the wild cats of southern North America.

This book, as well as most of the Audubon field guides, is a terrific resource for igniting children's imaginations. Reading about the animals' lives should help give children insights into the diversity and interconnectedness of species, and spark an appreciation for the beauty inherent in the wild.

excellent field guide, March 1, 2000
I thoroughly enjoy my Audubon field guides and the Mammals of North America is the most Interesting of the list. It is definitely a must have for anyone interested in animals. With tons of color photos of virtually every species in North america this is a great buy! Descriptions are longer and have more information than the Peterson series but some photographs are hard to see the identifyable traits of the specimen. Perfect size to throw in the pack and head out to the field to spot your favorites.

Field Guide to North American Mammals, June 28, 2006
From the shrews to the bears, this guide is what one should have in the field. . .especially in Alaska.

Awesome Field Guide, June 16, 2006
This guide includes all sorts of animals in and around my area. It has a very thorough explanation of the animals and how to identify them. Whats really useful is the pictures. There are several pictures for each species including Summer coat & Winter coat. This is especially helpful if you are out animal watching during different times of year. I love going out exploring and coming home to look up the critters I saw.

Beautiful but SHALLOW!, August 13, 2008
I don't know why the individuals who gave 5 stars, did so. The most beautiful, striking part of this book is the photographs. They're great!! hands down. However the narration on each animal just follows 8 basic formatted questions, Range, Size, offspring, Etc.; definitely necessary info but it's very shallow to stop there. Besides a few scattered phrases there is very minimal specific,unique info regarding an individual mammal that any animal lover would've expected to find even some basic stuff! The narration is definitely overly general and vague. THEY created a template and just filled it in. I expected alot more. I see that there are other books that have much more info but pictures? "fahgetta- battit" (these are hard to beat!) I guess you need both. It was definitely an improvement over past Audubon books. I wouldn't buy another Audubon guide online but rather in store & see for myself. I know there's only so much space in 1 book but ITS VERY SHALLOW!

indispensible for any naturalist's library, October 1, 2007
As with all the Audubon Field Guides, so too with this one - it is well made, with good binding and a durable leatherette cover; the index is well organized with links to the color plates; and the color photos are the best of any of the field guides.

The descriptions, albeit way too brief, are concise and straight forward. There are 390 mammal species covered - range and habitat, behavior patterns, and track illustrations round out the textual information.

This edition was updated in 1996, so it's not as dated as some of the other Audubon guides. Although the #1 deficiency of these guides is the inadequate summaries (the details really need to be fleshed out), these guides are on the whole better than the Peterson and Stokes guides. This volume has its place in any serious naturalist's library.


Extracts: A Field Guide for Iconoclasts

The Cloud Reckoner

The best .................., November 20, 2002
These are the BEST field guides we have ever owned. We have the trees, western USA birds, trees and sealife ones and they are a wonderful size and fit easily into a coat pocket or glove compartment of ones car and of course a back pack. They make a GREAT gift and during the Christmas season a great stocking stuffer.

They are so complete as far as information goes, telling the reader what the migration and nesting habits are, where the birds can be found and they have wonderful photographs that are so useful when out on a hike. Our son loved them growing up and with a set of binoculars on a hike a person can find hours passing and not realize it.

The covers on the books (vinyl) make it easy to keep them clean. Buy at least one and I assure you, you will be hooked.......... ... Read more

Editorial Review

Written and designed for the beginner, this book describes and illustrates the most common and interesting rocks and minerals, from simple sandstone to exotic gems. Illustrated with dozens of beautiful color photographs, it tells how these rocks and minerals formed and how to identify them--and includes tips on collecting. ... Read more

Reviews

good resource, September 29, 2008
This particular "rock identificatin book" is pretty good. The photos of samples are good and in color. However, it is not a comprehensive as our earth science instructor had hoped. On the whole, it is a good text for beginners.

To the point, basics, and a lot of examples., December 1, 2009
This book is small, easily fits into your pocket, sturdy for its tall size, and filled with brilliant photos or examples with short descriptions as the pages go on.

As a direct read it is a quickie, but it is also a decent reference guide to the most common rocks, metals, and crystals. It discusses basic geology and the formation of the planet and what makes our elements, it gives to-the-point single paragraphs on a lot of basic material. This would be a great guide to the starting geologist or student hungering for a hobby.

Great beginner resource, February 12, 2010
As a hobbyist I was looking for a good book to start off with. I found this book to be a great starting place. The introduction is clear and provides enough details to set the stage for understanding the rest of the material. There are photographs of each type of rock and mineral presented. The rocks and minerals are presented in a clear and concise manner with just enough information to give the reader a general idea of the chemical composition, physical description, and typical locations for each item discussed.

I also found the writing style of this book pleasant and enjoyable to read.

Rocks and Minerals, September 30, 2009
Good, handy guide to have.
Great seller, fast shipping, accurate description.
Well done!!
Greg Martin

Rocks and Minerals, December 17, 2007
I found it to be very helpful for my students since we don't always have an opportunity to get out and actually see these rocks, etc.

My review, April 26, 2007
I'm really in to rocks now so I don't want a guide on how rocks are formed I want a guide of what the look like, how hard they are, and other stuff. peace out ... Read more

Editorial Review

Covering both freshwater and saltwater species, this fully revised edition brings a new level of accuracy and usefulness to the original fishes field guide published over 20 years ago.

Over 700 new full-color photographs, 286 black-and-white illustrations, and 637 maps combine to make this book the most comprehensive field guide available to the fishes of North America.

•635 species covered in detail, with notes on 771 more
•723 full-color identification photographs
•286 black-and-white illustrations
•Visual organization of species photographs by shape for easy identification
•Range map for each species
•Glossary of useful terms ... Read more

Reviews

Great reference, March 9, 2010
As with all NAS Field Guides , this a great book for identifying fresh and SALTWATER fishes (as is described in the product description) . This small book contains beautiful pictures and detailed descriptions of any species you may want to identify . Great for the fisherman , naturalist or those just interested in fish and/or the natural world around them . I own many of these NAS Field Guides on flora and fauna , that I have bought through the years, and they have been a great help when I have been in need to identify fish , birds or plants in my area or while vacationing. All of these books have been a joy to read .

NAS Field Guide; Fishes, January 12, 2008
I have been buying two NAS Field Guides for my grandson each year for the past five years. One for his birthday and one for Christmas. I love these books and use many of my copies regularly to identify everything I find and don't know what it is. I want my grandson to be as keen on the earth and the world around him as I have been. This is another excellent field guide to keep him informed. An excellent book as are all the National Audubon Society's books.

great field guide, August 2, 2009
This is a great field guide. Like most field guides, you can never have just one, but this is definitely a great one to have around. I was mislead to believe this was strictly a freshwater encyclopedia. It has both fresh and salt water, so that was a little disappointing, but very informative, well made, small, lightweight, and great clear pictures. Everything a field guide should be.

a great resource for fish lovers, January 12, 2009
very helpful in amateur fish identification;
clear pictures and descriptions; durabble cover and construction.

North American Fishes Field Guide Review, November 9, 2006
These are excellent books for the beginning entomologist.....they offer a lot of valuable infomation about a limited number of species ... Read more

Editorial Review

Practical, concise, and easy to use, Simon & Schuster's Guide to Rocks and Minerals contains everything that the rock and mineral enthusiast needs to know. This field guide is divided into two large sections -- one devoted to minerals and one to rocks, each prefaced by a comprehensive introduction that discusses formation, chemistry, and more. All 377 entries, beautifully illustrated with color photographs and helpful visual symbols, provide descriptions and practical information about appearance, classification, rarity, crystal formation, mode of occurrence, gravity of mineral, rock chemistry, modal classification fields, formational environments, grain sizes of rocks, and much more.

Whether you are a serious collector or an information-seeking amateur, this incomparably beautiful, authoritative guide will prove an invaluable reference. ... Read more

Reviews

A good Field Guide, December 1, 1997
This is another field guide. Its introductory section is brief; most of it is descriptive. The advantage of this guide are its text opposite its color photos, so you don't have to flip pages to match them; they are already together! Included also in the mineral part are crystal diagrams. Text includes name, formula, system, appearance, physical properties (for minerals), environment, occurrence, and uses (for rocks, components). There are 276 mineral entries and 101 rock entries. This may be the only common field guide with a good rocks section.

Excellent color photos and an easy to use index. This is useful as a field guide, and as such may be found very useful for the geology student in the field, especially as it contains both minerals and rocks. -DMM

The best field guide to rocks and minerals., August 11, 1999
Of all the field guides published, this is the most completeand easiest to use. Excellent photographs & text with lots ofinformation. A good sturdy book.

Very useful field guide, May 27, 2001
For rockhounds and beginning geologists, this book is a good overview. It not only gives a very long listing of the more popular rocks and minerals, but a thorough discussion of each along with beautiful photographs. In addition, the author does give a brief overview of crystallography that will serve well the beginner and motivates further reading on the subject. This part of geology and mineralogy is fascinating but can be time-consuming to get through. Even when not out in the field I have found this book fun to read in leisure time. It is packed full of interesting information and for the price cannot be beat.

Excellent identification system., July 10, 2004
S&S Guide to Rocks and Minerals is a very worthwhile purchase for experienced collectors. The usual Simon and Schuster system is here, but used in an excellent way. The descriptions are the best that could ever be in a Simon and Schuster guide. The gemstones and minerals pictured are beautiful and clearly photographed. There are hundreds upon hundreds of rocks and minerals listed, which makes it one of the best companions in the field. It isn't bulky, and the correct size to carry with you on a mountain trip or archaeological dig. The rarity and value is also given, including the luster, weight, and durability of a particular rock.
The two editions released on the market today do not differ noticeably, as in every edition of a Simon and Schuster guide. The "Fireside Book" press is less complete than the newly revised edition, but not in a large way. A serious collector should purchase any edition quickly along with the Audubon Society guide.

Excellent, April 18, 2003
This book was a must have for all geology students when I started out. Everyone in first year had this book and we used it regularly right up to fourth year. It came in very handy for mineralogy, especially since we had to know 200 of the rock forming minerals. The color pictures and information about each mineral and rock (including accidentals) and the geologic environment was very helpful. This book even came in handy when we were working on a gold exploration program coring through volcanic rock. It was helpful trying to match up the pictures with the rocks we were logging. Of course I don't recommend this practise but we all did enjoy the joke in camp.

This book has also been helpful when I used to work on large scale field mapping projects or drilling programs. I still have my original copy. I definately recommend this book above all others I have seen to any rock hound, hobbist or student.

An excellent and easy to use field-guide, February 22, 2003
A Rock and Mineral competition forced me to buy a field guide on the subject. By luck, I picked up the Simon and Schuster's Guide to Rocks and Minerals, and couldn't have been happier with it. This book it helpful in identifying mineral specimens from around the word, and also provides easy-to-find and essential information about each one. The pictures are wonderful, and they portray the appearance of the most common and obscure varieties. With the long hours of studying and the help of this book, I took a state medal, and later a national medal, in the Rocks and Minerals field of the Science Olympiad competition. Best guide I've seen on the subject.

Not for beginners, but good for advanced hobbyist, July 22, 2002
The information and photos are great, but it's geared more towards someone who already has a good working knowledge of the subject, especially the introduction to minerals. I would recommend this as a solid field reference, but not so good as a field guide (there's not identification key). Beginners will quickly get lost in some of the technical aspects and jargon.

Good for basic information, April 9, 2002
Good book to use if you are starting out. Although I would liked to have seen some comparison pictures of certain rocks. Some rocks/minerals may be the same but look totally different in certain situations. Nice book though at decent price.

A "must have" for any rock hound!, August 28, 2009
I am replacing this book, I gave the one I had to my nephew who is now really into rocks. I am a Graduate Gemologist (someone who is certified in diamonds and colored gemstones), with my certification from the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), the only really trusted source of gem/diamond information worldwide.

I tell you this because even someone like me, can't remember every rock or gem.

I have Simon and Schuster's "Guide to gems and precious stones" as well.

Both of these books are like a dictionary for rocks or gems - always handy to have by your side.


-Marie S.

Great for anyone who is interested in the subject, August 8, 2010
Although this is not meant for anyone and everyone who may look at it, if someone is at least a little interested in minerals and rocks, this is a great guide. It has many specimens that others do not, and it is set up in a very organized manner. I use this book in many geology classes, from Mineralogy to Stratigraphy! I have gotten lost just browsing the pages of this book. I love it! I recommend it to anyone who asks. ... Read more

Editorial Review

This popular guide to attracting, identifying, and enjoying all the common North American species of butterflies includes 149 full-color photos, 65 range maps, and two sample garden plans. ... Read more

Reviews

Handy guide, August 29, 2000
The two things I liked best about this book are the pages devoted to identifying butterflies by color (it groups them so that if you see one that is predominantly orange, you can look at the page of orange butterflies to find the one you're trying to identify), and the pages devoted to creating an attractive butterfly garden, with schemes showing how to arrange plants that attract butterflies. It's not a technical book, thereby making it a good guide for backyard butterfly enthusiasts.

Bird lovers...become butterfly enthusiasts..., October 20, 2001
I've been enchanted with birds ever since I observed my parents whistling and mocking the mockingbirds who mocked them back. I've been a gardener forever, cursing those creepy caterpillers who devoured this and that. In the past few years I've taken a greater interest in butterflies, and lo what do I discover...the creepy caterpillers turn into the beautiful butterflies if the birds don't eat them first. I knew that of course because like lots of kids, I too brought home the cocoon found on some branch and kept it in a glass jar with holes punched in the top until it did not "hatch." Yes, I said did NOT. I never had any success with this effort so I forgot about caterpillers and cocoons--until I opened STOKES BUTTERFLY BOOK and there are those darn cocoons again.

This is a wonderful book for adolescent children who can read big words and like big type or older people with vision problems. The pictures are colorful and closeup and the type large enough that my aunt can see it under her "reading" machine" (she has diabetes and is sight impaired).

The book is filled with all sorts of interesting information about the behaviour of butterfiles (basking in the sun to warm up their wings, puddling to suck up nutients; courting and laying eggs --surprise there are two sexes, just like the birds). There are also lots of photos of their predecessors--the caterpillers who require a daily ration of greens to grow up into beautiful bugs.

Now I must admit it is about time that I realized that every orange and black butterfly I see is NOT a Monarch, but goodness there are so MANY orange and black butterfiles will I ever be able to tell them apart? Some are Crescents and Checkerspots (in my neck of the woods which is the East Coast) and there are Admirals. Goodness--Monarchs, Admirals, Viceroys--I had no idea there was an aristocracy of butterflies.

I intend to use this book with my granddaughters who love to walk in grandma's garden and learn the names of plants and bugs and birds. Now we'll learn the names of caterpillers and their reincarnations who form an intermediate link in the food chain.

Enjoy Butterflies In Your Yard Or On Your Patio, September 18, 2004
I love the Stokes Nature Guides. I've owned The Butterfly Book for years. I found that when I followed the book's recommendations and put plants for both caterpillars and adult butterflies in my yard that my enjoyment of butterflies grew. I love all of the pictures of caterpillars and found the instructions for raising caterpillars helpful.
The butterfly book covers planting for both caterpillars and butterflies and butterfly behavior. In fact, planting for butterflies in containers is also a cinch. Butterfly gardens of all sizes, shapes, and types are being planted at home, in school yards, and at nursing homes.
I keep watching for adult Monarchs to come back to my yard each spring. I love watching their caterpillars gobble up leaves. A couple of years ago, I learned how to how to find and identify butterfly eggs and made a video on Butterfly Homes.
In the last section of the book, 63 of the most common butterflies, including the ones you are most likely to see in your yard, are described. They are grouped by family. I found the book's description of the appearance and behavior of butterflies in different families especially helpful. This book is an excellent choice for young and old alike.

The Butterfly Book: An Easy Guide To Butterfly Gardening, April 5, 2000
This book will give you all the information you need to select the plants neccesary to attract butterflies and feed their catapillars. Picutures help you identify both adult butterflies and their catipillars. I keep my copy handy to check who/what is enjoying the garden. Great for the beginner or expert.

Adequate information for children to use, July 5, 2007
The book was less informative than the title suggested. It was far from complete in its description of butterfly behavior, planting for butterfly gardens and in butterfly identification; however, I found the 2 pages on caterpillar identification very informative. Overall, for very basic knowledge, the book was helpful and would probably be enjoyed more by children. Children would especially like of the number of large photos. Also unlike what the title may suggest, the book read more like a magazine in length which may appeal to children more, too. The book is an easy read and can be completed cover to cover in under an hour. This book is for you if you have only a basic knowledge of butterflies and want a simple, easy to read reference. If you're looking for a substantial reference book, you may want to look elsewhere.

Great, but limited, May 8, 2007
Yes, this is a good "beginner" book, but falls short on the amount of butterflies that are around. I have enjoyed learning from this book. It does have lots of garden ideas to attact butterflies. In general, it's a great beginner book. JT

The very first butterfly book you should buy., October 1, 2009
Buy this book if you are interested in attracting butterflies or creating a butterfly garden. Lots of interesting information about habitat and behavior. Identification Guide could be more complete. Not enough photos, especially comparison shots of open vs. closed wings. Overall an excellent butterfly book.

butterfly gardens, July 5, 2008
While visiting the Butterfly Garden exhibit in Boston's Science Museum, we asked a person in charge which book he recommended for growing one's own butterfly garden (my son lives in Framingham, MA). The answer was Stokes, and he wrote it down for us. The museum does not sell it.
The number of butterflies identified is smaller than some guides, but the details about their preferred plants are very good. Since I bought the book for my son (I live in California), I cannot provide more details except that he and his wife are very happy with it.

Butterfly book, June 4, 2008
I love the book, it is eactly as she described it to be. Fast shipping as well
Thanks

The Butterfly Book, May 9, 2007
This book is very informative and a must have for butterfly gardeners. ... Read more

Editorial Review

John Hoover, Hawaii’s foremost expert of Hawaiian reef fish and author of bestselling Hawaii’s Fishes brings us Reef Fish Hawaii; Waterproof Pocket Guide.Now you can identify the beautiful fish you see while you are diving!The booklet, which identifies over 150 of the most commonly seen fish in Hawaii, is small enough to fit in a pocket or dive bag, has vibrant full-color photos especially formated for underwater viewing.It includes scientific and Hawaiian names as well as a short description of each fish.If you are a divining enthusiast, or a beginner, Reef Fish Hawaii will become an indispensible part of your dive gear! ... Read more

Reviews

Serves its function very well. but needs a lanyard..., March 20, 2010
John P. Hoover is THE MAN when it comes to identifying Hawaiian sea creatures. The serious diver and snorkeler really need to have his other reference books, Hawaii's Fishes and Hawaii's Sea Creatures, and his book on Hanauma Bay is a great resource for those visiting that famed location.

This small booklet is not meant to replace any of these. It is meant to replace those maddening plastic "fish ID" cards that you can pick up everywhere, that either are limited to 20 or so "common" fish (disputable), or, quite frankly, aren't that good at depicting the key identification characteristics of some fish with the illustrations used.

This booklet has Hoover's characteristic terrific photos. How does he have the patience to wait for most fish to slowly turn toward him so that he can capture both a lateral and anterior view? With room for about 150 species, Hoover couldn't include photos of the various juvenile or sex-specific forms or color patterns, so you won't see, say, a photo of a juvenile rockmover wrasse. And apparently I need to be looking more closely for the Indo-Pacific sergeant, instead of assuming that they are all the Hawaiian variety.

My one complaint is the nature of this book, which is meant to be used in the water. How do you hold onto it? I needed to punch a hole through the book, then attach a wrist lanyard. Divers need to keep everything attached to their BCD, and snorkelers can't/won't keep this in their hand while swimming. I do understand that a lanyard, or rubber band, or whatever you want to use to attach this booklet to your BCD or wrist may be awkward in a bookstore setting, but I would guess that Joe and Jane Snorkeler do not have access to a nice hole punch that would allow them to jury-rig some attachment device. And a hole is needed to keep this booklet from floating off.

Even with this "holey" comment, I'd recommend this booklet over every one of the similarly-priced plastic ID guides. Make your visit to Hawaiian waters a memorable one, and learn the fishes!

Great LITTLE book., July 14, 2009
This handy, LITTLE book is indeed handy, has great authentic photos and yet it is smaller than I had envisioned. As it turns out, it suits my purposes very well. When at the beach, it does not take up any room in the bag and yet provides great reference photos for my snorkeling sessions. It will be a must-take on every trip where I will get to see these amazing and wonderfilled creatures again.

Awesome underwater!, June 1, 2009
This waterproof guide completely fulfilled my expectations. It was easy to use while snorkeling, and dried out easily. I easily identified fish in the Oahu reefs.

Good book, but small, November 10, 2006
I was surprised when I got this book to see how small and flimsy it was. I was expecting something a bit sturdier. It is more of a pamphlet than a book. But it is made of waterproof paper, and has good information on the fish of Hawaii.

Pocket Guide, December 2, 2009
Easy to carry in the water as you are looking for the many different fish in Hawaii.

Hoover is the MAN if you want to learn Hawaiian Reef FIsh, December 1, 2009
If you want to know about Hawaii's reef fish, buy a book by Hoover! This little Pocket Guide is a handy reference that you can take to the beach with you. The waterproof pages are nice, so your book doesn't get ruined when you can't wait to dry off before looking up that fish you saw snorkeling or diving. Hoover's books always include great color photos. His books are also great for academic research projects (I always use his books as references for my projects!) I also like his other booksThe Ultimate Guide to Hawaiian Reef Fishes: Sea Turtles, Dolphins, Whales, and SealsHawaii's Sea Creatures, a Guide to Hawaii's Marine InvertebratesHawaii's Fishes : A Guide for Snorkelers, Divers, and Aquarists ... Read more

Editorial Review

The National Audubon Society Guide to Marine Mammals ofthe World describes in fascinating detail all 120 species of theworld's whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals and sea lions, manatees,Marine and Sea Otters, and the Polar Bear. Written by a team ofexperts and featuring more than 320 illustrations, 418 photographs,and 123 maps, this new guide offers more authoritative, up-to-date,and accessible information than any book previously published on thesubject.

Organized by the four major groups of marine mammals--marinefissipeds, pinnipeds, cetaceans, and sirenians--the speciesdescriptions include:

Full-color paintings, some depicting males and females, juveniles,subspecies, or special features. Color photographs showing appearancein the wild and illustrating typical behaviors. Life history data,including length and weight at various life stages, and lifespan. Range and habitat text and a full-color range map based on themost current information. Facts about social organization, surfacebehaviors, swimming, and diving. Information on mating behavior,breeding, and the rearing of young. Details about food items andforaging techniques.Estimates of population in the wild, pluscurrent and historic threats.

A general introduction outlines the evolution and taxonomy of marinemammals, distribution, migration, watching guidelines, identificationtechniques, organizations and laws that protect marine mammals, andmore.

Introductions to groups include comparative size illustrations,discussion of behaviors particular to the group, and other uniquefeatures.

A useful illustrated glossary of terms and an index of species namescomplete the guide.

Exquisitely detailed illustrations, stunning photographs, and clearlywritten text combine to make this an indispensible reference sourcefor marine mammal watchers and anyone interested in the natural world. ... Read more

Reviews

The 'Sibley' of Marine Mammals, April 10, 2002
The National Audubon Society's Guide to Marine Mammals of the World contains a wealth of information about pinnipeds (seals and sea lions), cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises), sirenians (manatees and dugongs), polar bears and otters that's timely and easy to digest. Descriptions, range, behavior, etc. of the various species are informative, with just enough detail for anyone short of a marine biology major.

Along with a number of excellent quality photographs, Pieter Folkens (from my hometown of Benicia, CA!) illustrations are superb. From Knopf, the same publishers of the Sibley Guide to Birds, the graphics and layout of this guide are similarly clean and very attractive. I think it's one of the best looking books of it's type, and an ideal introductory guide for anyone with an interest in marine mammals.

Awesome, August 17, 2005
This books is very informational. I have gotten a lot of information from it and the pictures are fabulous! I would recommend this book to anyone interested in Marine Mammals. My daughter wants to be a Marine Biologist/Marine Mammal Trainer and this book gave her all the right information at the right time.

A lasting, important library reference, August 8, 2002
Pieter Folkens illustrates Guide To Marine Mammals Of The World, a comprehensive desk reference which blends color photos and maps with realistic drawings of marine mammals. Paintings illustrate juvenile and subspecies, photos show typical behavior and appearance in the wild, and color range maps reflect the latest information, while chapters cover all the natural history basics. Guide To Marine Mammals Of The World promises to be a lasting, important library reference.

Guide to Marine Mammals of the World, December 16, 2002
Guide to Marine Mammals of the World illustrated by Pieter Folkens et al is a National Audubon Society book organized into four major groups of marine mammals; marine fissipeds, pinnipeds, cetaceans, and sirenians.

There is fascinating detail as the book goes on to describe the world's whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals and sea lions, manatees, marine and sea otters, and polar bears. Not only is there detailed descriptions, but there are maps to show where these animals live throughout the world. There is a general introduction that outlines the evolution and tanonomy of marine mammals, distribution, migration, watching guidelines, identification techniques, organizations and laws that protect marine mammals.

There are 120 species represented in this book. Also, there are facts about social organization, surface behaviors, swimming and diving, details about food items and foraging techniques, and estimates of population in the wild, plus current and historic threats.

If you are taking a trip to the coastlines or live near the oceans then don't be caught without this fine field guide. You will be amazed by the wildlife near the and in the ocean. This is a comprehensive and beautifully illustrated work.

Don't leave home without it, as your trip will be richer and more fulfilling as you spot the animals listed. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Everyone's heard of the Great Whites. But most people know little of the hundreds of other types of sharks that inhabit the world's oceans. Written by two of the world's leading authorities and superbly illustrated by wildlife artist Marc Dando, this is the first comprehensive field guide to all 440-plus shark species. Color plates illustrate all species, and detailed accounts include diagnostic line drawings and a distribution map for each species. Introductory chapters treat physiology, behavior, reproduction, ecology, diet, and sharks' interrelationships with humans.

• More than 125 original full-color illustrations for fast and accurate identification of each shark family
• Over 500 additional drawings illustrating physical features from different angles
• Clear identification information for each species with details of size, habitat, behavior, and biology
• Quick ID guide helpful for differentiating similar species
• Geographic distribution maps for each species
• For professional and amateur shark enthusiasts

Reviews

AT LAST, AT LAST, AT LAST!!!, November 18, 2005
It's finally here -- THE DEFINITIVE and COMPLETELY (yes, very literally) EXHAUSTIVE shark guide. I've just picked up my copy and it still feels like a dream. As a serious shark enthusiast, this is the book that I have always dreamed about but has never existed, until now. If you're a shark enthusiast, it would be a tragedy not to acquire this book. Here's why:

(1) There are lavish full color illustrations of every single species of shark known today -- 404 described species and 49 as-yet-undescribed species on 64 plates, each species in oblique view (not the usual profile shot), giving invaluable information on its shape in 3 dimensions. In addition to the most popular species (such as the great white or the blacktip reef shark), the least well known are also included in this book, such as Deania quadrispinosum or Etmopterus pusillus, or new species, such as Isistius labialis or Somniosus antarcticus. There are 3 plates of 18 species of angel sharks (Squatinidae)! All 5 species of Oxynotus are included! Nine species of saw shark (Pristiophoridae)!

(2) All breath-takingly accurate illustrations are by the same artist, ensuring consistent style. Mark Dando is among the most accomplished of shark artists; his attention to detail is truly astounding. As a discriminating and accomplished fellow natural history artist, I know what I'm talking about. Having said that, please understand that the illustrations chosen for the cover, while wonderfully accurate, are not representative of the exquisite skill demonstrated in his illustrations of more colorful species, such as the ornate wobbegong (Orectolobus ornatus). Therefore, at the risk of sinking in the mire of cliche, I nevertheless urge you not to judge this book by its cover!

(3) The work is truly exhaustive, not only in the number of species depicted. Where there is sufficient variation within a species, additional color illustrations depict sexual dimorphism, juvenile forms and races. All species are presented to scale with each other and a scale bar is provided for easy size comparisons.

(4) For those with a taste for the traditional practice of depicting sharks in profile line drawings, the illustrator satisfies in the textual portion of the book. Again, every single species is beautifully presented in a fine ink line drawing from the side (or from the top in angel sharks and saw sharks). With every species is included a detailed range map, and for most species the teeth are also illustrated. For many, the ventral view of the head is also presented.

(5) The text reads like a field guide, providing detailed notes on the measurements, distinguishing features, distribution, habitat, behavior, biology and status of each species, written by leading authorities on sharks. It even includes a checklist at the end so that shark watchers can record their sightings in the field.

I am completely confident that no shark enthusiast will be disappointed in this book. Seriously folks, the editorial review provided by the publisher for this book underestimates its worth. It's truly a gem and will probably remain the definitive reference and the ultimate field guide for a long, long time.

A must for shark workers and enthusiasts, May 6, 2005
If you don't know anything about Leonard Compagno, you should know that he is a very thorough archivist. It was he who cataloged all of the known shark species for the FAO Species Catalog, presumably the basis for this book. The book begins with a small introductory section on sharks (evolution, anatomy, physiology, ecology, etc.) and a key to the families. This is followed by wonderfully drawn color plates of each shark. The individual descriptions of the sharks include a line drawing with notable characters, examples of upper and lower teeth (more if heterodontic), distributions and a short blurb that includes habitat, size, behavior and biology, descriptions and IUCN status. Included are relatively new species and all of the deep-water forms. I cannot imagine needing another guide, at least for the next ten years. New species aren't exactly rolling in. I would recommend, however, a hardback copy for field workers, as paperbacks don't last very long with heavy usage. Also, keep in mind that other elasmobranchs are not included. I have not seen Compagno's much cheaper Collins Guide (only available in hardback), but I do know that this Princeton Guide is worth the money.

Complete and Intriguing, May 30, 2006
Growing up around brothers and cousins who fish and swimming in the mighty Atlantic, sharks have been a whisper in my life that may get lost in being at the shore. I have been in the water with sharks, caught sharks, discovered dead sharks washed up on the shore, and played the role of amateur ichthyologist (sp?) when a shark was brought in over four feet long.

This book is not for everyone, it is a scientific almanac or encyclopedia of species of sharks that one has never heard of. But it does fill in the great mysteries about those sharks one does encounter, and expands one's curiousity to the other infamous fish in the waters. I held this book in my hand trying to determine if a still flopping shark of 48" was a bull shark or a sandbar shark... the book succeeded where wisened fishermen failed. It would be welcome in the hands of the curious, the fisherman, or the student.

THE Field Guide to own, September 9, 2008
If you're going to have only one book on sharks this one is it. It's not just exhaustive but it is exhaustively illustrated as well. Each shark is shown in black and white line drawing as well as color illustrated.

This is also a well-made book. It's a paperback but the binding is sewn rather than glued. It's made to last.

the incredible diversity of sharks, September 12, 2009
A lovely book. I got interested in sharks after watching some nature programs of the deep sea. I wanted to know what other weird, bizarre, beautiful and little known shark species there are and this book introduces them all with very good drawings and color plates. Each shark species, even those that have been seen only a single time, is represented by a color painting and then again in the text by a line drawing. In addition, there is a very nice introductory section on general shark anatomy and biology, also with some superb b&w drawings. The text is sparse, but will tell you basic information (if known) about each species. BTW, the book's cover looked different than the one shown on this page, but that doesn't matter to me.

There are no photos, as one reviewer pointed out, but then, these field-guide style books usually don't have those anyways. Most folks will never get to the deep sea, so it's not like you'd need a book like this to take along on your next beach vacation so you can key out whatever washes up on the beach. Then again, if you're a diver or snorkler, it will help key out the occasional shark or dogfish you see. What this book is best for is to simply open your mind about the incredible diversity and beauty of sharks. Who woulda thunk there were THAT many of them! So sit down and marvel :)

this is the one!!, May 31, 2008
my husband is extremely well read and has a special interest in sharks. he has looked for a long time for a book on sharks that would show detailed plates and drawings for identification as well as informative text - not fluff. this is it - at least it's the best we've found. i highly recommend this book - for the money, i guarantee you'll be satisfied with the amount of information it provides.

Shark Lover's, January 11, 2007
If you know anyone interested in sharks, this is the book. The only ID book needed for the hobbiest or seasoned researcher. A must have for any well stocked nature or marine library.

For grandson with Asperger's-LOVED this book, January 20, 2008
Pictures and great, in depth with the most information I've ever seen in a book about sharks. We borrowed it at library and then decided to buy. ... Read more