Psychology book reviews

What kind of book is it? 

A summary and discussion of '70 studies that shape psychology'.

What's the layout and presentation like? 

There's a strong index and each study is outlined and discussed in a uniform way, which gives good internal consistency. Illustrations are used sparingly but a useful feature is the emboldened definitions of technical terms in the margin. The text is nicely broken up and there's a useful glossary in the back, though perhaps we could be made more aware of this.

Is it comprehensive?

All the usual areas of psychology are well represented and this is very important for the student. There are also applied topics at the back, though they don't extend to many topic areas and could be expanded.
Students really appreciate the level of explanation, since it doesn't overwhelm them with overly technical, detailed explanations. The level of detail is excellent for AS level, though for higher, ultra evaluative levels a more detailed, traditional text is recommended as back-up.

What's the writing style like? 

The strong point of this book is certainly the written style, which is lively, entertaining and informative. The authors work hard (yet make it seem easy) to relate often tricky issues to everyday experience and for that reason this is a book which often draws uncertain students into psychology.

What kind of book is it? 

An introductory textbook for abnormal psychology.

What's the layout and presentation like? 

It uses a magazine style layout, with columns, which breaks up the text nicely. There are plenty of illustrations, though mostly in the 'photograph' style, which can date quite quickly. Also, the index could be more comprehensive. Overall though the headings and well thought-out structure make it an inviting text. Each section has a useful summary at the back.

Is it comprehensive?

Key topics in abnormal psychology are all covered here, with useful evaluations. But there could be more coverage of cross-cultural concepts of abnormality, as well as explorations of racial and gender inequality and differential diagnosis and treatment.
The recommended audience is AS and A level students, although the book would also be of some use to first year undergraduates who are looking at issues of abnormality.

What's the writing style like? 

Written in the authoritative manner you'd expect of these authors, citing plenty of research, in an unfussy style which is clearly designed to inform more than to entertain. Explanations are clear and well researched.

What kind of book is it? 

A traditional, 'one-stop' introductory psychology textbook.

What's the layout and presentation like? 

An accessible read, certainly. The index is really excellent, with reference to every concept you need for an A-level or first year undergraduate course. Though the book is short of photographs this is more than made up for by the subtle, helpful colour text boxes, summaries of content, chapter plans and clear, innovative diagrams.

Is it comprehensive?

Yes, very. All the important topics are covered to an admirable level of detail, with good awareness of historical, cultural and political issues. Perhaps the methods section could be a little more detailed, a little more prominent in the text.
What's the level of detail and difficulty like? The level of detail is a real plus. It is sufficient for first year undergraduates and does so at a consistent level throughout. Students really appreciate this. Yet although it is rigorous, discursive (though not opinionated) it remains unstuffy.

What's the writing style like? 

Excellent. The book treads a smart line in using clear explanations, without use of unnecessary jargon, whilst at the same time remaining technical. Also, the style is readable, conversational, without trying too hard to be humorous or overly simple.