Book excerpt: Vol. 2: This 1977 book analyses and describes the range of variation in the wild flora and fauna of Britain and identifies important sites that exemplify this rich heritage. These key sites were chosen to represent all the main types of natural and semi-natural vegetation with their characteristic communities of plants and animals. In Volume 2, the 735 chosen sites are described. They include areas in both public and private ownershop as well as nature reserves. Location and size are given, with an account of other specific features. The internationally applicable criteria for evaluating and selecting key sites are also fully discussed. Cambridge University Press published the Review on behalf of the Nature Conservancy Council and the Natural Environment Research Council. It will interest those concerned with the planning, management and use of land and water in relation to nature conservation, as well as for ecologists and naturalists.