When the first edition hit the streets in 1976, there were few books or journals devoted to the nervous system, and subsequent editions have added new topics, more pages, and more authors to accommodate the growth of the science. The goal remains to explain to readers who may not have any background in biology how nerve cells transmit signals, how the signals are put together, and how higher functions emerge from this integration. The overall themes are electrical properties of neurons and glia, intercellular communication, integrative mechanisms, sensation and movement, and the development and regeneration of the nervous system. The work is highly and colorfully illustrated. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)