Peter Turchin
Princeton University Press, Princeton, New Jersey, 2003
450 pp., $39.9
ISBN: 0-691-09021-1

As the title indicates, this textbook presents both theoretical and empirical approaches to the study of population dynamics. Part I, "Theory," presents an excellent foundation for the understanding of the rationale and process for describing and understanding population dynamics. Part II, "Data," provides a "how to" manual for developing appropriate models for analyzing data and modeling approaches for the generation of empirically testable hypotheses. Finally, Part III, "Case Studies," provides real world examples of how theoretical population modeling efforts coupled with experimentation can enhance our understanding of complex population dynamics. In this section, Turchin includes discussions of red grouse, vole, and hare population dynamics. This reviewer was tangentially involved in the early efforts at modeling Southern Pine Beetle population dynamics and was impressed not only at Turchin's discussion of what is known about the biology of this important forest insect, but by the interesting and well-written description of the process whereby clerid predators are posited as a major factor in modifying the population cycles of this important forest pest species.

This textbook is well written, logically organized, abundantly cross-referenced, and a pleasure to read, even if dense mathematics are not one's strength. It will be very useful for graduate/advanced undergraduate course work and a valuable reference book for the professional educator/researcher. Turchin's writing style is outstanding. One of the greatest impediments to teaching theoretical modeling is to overcome the reticence of many students to be bold in their exploration of meaningful mechanisms and hypotheses. Turchin's prose and problem-solving approach encourage the reader to take intellectual risks. He makes the subject matter not only understandable, but also enjoyable.

Michael C. Saunders
Department of Entomology
Pennsylvania State University
University Park, Pennsylvania

Environmental Entomology
Vol. 35, No. 4, August 2006, Page 1139