Encyclopedia of Biodiversity

Gr 9 Up—Spanning a wide range of topics and subjects from acid rain and fog to the evolutionary biologist Edward O. Wilson, these comprehensive entries are aligned to the National Research Council’s National Science Education Standards for high school. It’s evident that the author, a professional botanist, has spent the last 20 years making biodiversity accessible to students and readers; his material, although sophisticated, is clearly written and well organized. Adequate background information is included, allowing readers with little prior knowledge to understand new concepts and ideas. Tables, charts, and color photographs are interspersed throughout. Following most entries, which may range from a few paragraphs to a few pages, the author provides a list of books, web sources, and/or scientific journals for further reading. Back matter includes an extensive glossary, a thorough chronology, and a bibliography, all of which provide welcome support to student researchers.