Atoms and Cells examines crystals, viruses, bacteria, cell components, cell division, simple plants, and simple animals. The illustrations do not always complement one another or the sketchy, uneven text, and they are poorly arranged in a cluttered display. Some diagrams are not labeled. Plants and Seeds , a much better book, describes the structure, nutrition, growth, and reproduction of plants from algae to pine trees. The illustrations complement and enhance the well-written text and encourage the further study of plants via the magnifying glass and microscope. Both books are illustrated with colorful, realistic drawings, diagrams, and photographic views through the magnifying glass and through simple and compound microscopes. Separate one-page sections explain how microphotographs are made; how to prepare specimens and slides (although the staining dye is unspecified); and how a magnifying glass, simple microscope, and compound microscope work. The books are not true introductory texts; they supplement such titles as Biology Encyclopedia (Macmillan, 1989). --Renee Blumenkrantz, Davis Community Library, Bethesda, MD
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