Biology of the Invertebrates

Is there a real need for another general textbook on invertebrate zoology? I would say no. Indeed, to begin with, there is little scope for imagination in this kind of endeavor since there already exist numerous volumes saying much the same thing about essentially the same organisms. The text in general is adequate in its presentation of the various phyla and each chapter begins with a useful short breakdown of classification within the phylum under discussion. Of particular interest are the fairly extensive annotated references accompanying each chapter. However the drawings tend to be very simple, often inadequately labeled, and many of the photographs are of poor quality and thus singularly unilluminating. More drawings and fewer photographs would have better supplemented the text. The very slight treatment given to the insects is not extensive enough to be of more than passing utility. While it is true, as the author claims, that classifications used in the book are up to date, these are bound to change and in all likelihood already have, so that this gives no real, distinct advantage over existing volumes. In short, I would recommend that beginning students of invertebrate zoology look elsewhere for a general text.