This goes into much more detail than most books aimed at home users. As a guide to using a microscope, it's brilliant; I feel like I've had a thorough course! As a UK user I'd say it's a bit less helpful than Thompson's accompanying Chemistry book, because where the Chemistry book is full of tips on how to get or improvise the equipment you need, this one tends to assume you've bought the equipment kit sold by the authors. If you're not in the USA, that's not very practical - but actually generally it's easier to buy scientific equipment and chemicals here. As with the chemistry book, it's not for the faint-hearted, not a light read, and you will probably feel more intelligent just by having it on your shelf!
Read more

great book. I bought it as I wanted to learn by myself how to use a microscope. I feel I'm following a very detailed course. very similar to a university course but easy to understand. I decently recommend. being in UK there are items they described which are present in USA only, but you can easily find same things from different brand in uk.
Read more

I am finding this book very useful, thou I have rated it high , I am at present doing some other work so unable to fully appreciate it and with respect to the book on forensic science, I have not had time to stuy it or work from it at present, but if its like the other book, then there should be no problems
Read more

A fantastic guide to getting started with biology at home and building your own lab. It gives instruction on substitutions for expensive dyes and filters too, which saves a lot of work researching and testing things out for yourself! I shall be getting their illustrated guide to home chemistry experiments too I think!
Read more

Packed full with information and how to get the best from your microscope including review questions and also Lab's giving what materials you need also information on all types of microscopes and their usage well worth the money
Read more

An excellent treatise of biology experiments and the use of any microscope for the newcomer and intermediate user. The book must be one of the best available covering laboratory procedures and microscope use. Highly recommended
Read more

I am just starting to work my way through this book and it seems perfect for a person like myself who wants to learn about biology but is too old and not going back to school to do it. It should be useful to other people interested in learning at home too. The book is not intended as a full biology textbook but as a lab manual to accompany almost any standard biology textbook. As a guide on how to set up an economical home lab for learning purposes and as a guide to safe procedures it seems good. At least I have found the chapter on obtaining microscopes illuminating so far.
Read more

Describe various experiments for biology
Read more

I have been feeling rather bored with my current occupation and just felt I needed something to kick start my intellectual curiosity. Biology is a field I toyed with in college but never took the plunge. Well, college was a long, long time ago, and now I want to at least feel connected to the field without having to face going back to school with a room full of 19-year olds. I wanted to buy a microscope, but was completely confused by all the terms and features. Then I got this book. There is a whole chapter dedicated to microscopy, including what features and brands to look for. I hadn't realized there is a whole DIY Biology subculture out there- people just like me. I think it helps to have at least some science courses under your belt so you would get the most out of the labs. But even if you don't, the text is excellent, and worth having even if you never opened a petri dish. Make sure to heed their safety warnings, especially with regards to safe practices with live cultures. I am really looking forward to doing as many of the labs as possible. Also, as another reviewer noted, you will have some serious practical knowledge and lab skills by the end of the coursework.
Read more

Excellent!
Read more

Ever since the authors wrote the "Illustrated Guide to Home Chemistry Experiments" I have been eagerly awaiting this book. Both books are exceptionally well written for all levels of experience. I use these books for self education to expand my knowledge on various topics and conduct my own experiments and these are perfect for me. This book is laid out succinctly with abundant illustrations and numerous suggestions for keeping your expenses to a minimum. Very much appreciated. I have a lot of books on self taught biology and this is by far the best. If you do like this resource, you should also check out the associated chemistry book. I now eagerly await their book regarding Forensic science and experiments, which has been previously hinted about.
Read more