Allman (math and statistics, U. of Southern Maine) and Rhodes (math, Bates College) share a strong interest in the interaction between the mathematical and biological sciences, as well as in the education of undergraduates for whom they've prepared this introductory text. Covering discrete models across a variety of biological subdisciplines, the authors aim to intrigue students rather than overwhelm them; they write in an informal style and make no attempt to offer definitive coverage, although they do treat some topics not usually touched on at this level. Coverage includes linear and non-linear models of populations, Markov models of molecular evolution, phylogenetic tree construction, genetics, and infectious disease models. Math topics are introduced as needed for the biological topics; knowledge of calculus is not prerequisite, but inclusion of material for those who do have that background makes the text adaptable. Computer investigations with MATLAB are incorporated throughout. Annotation (c) Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)