Book excerpt: Written by outstanding experts in the colloids field, this book deals with the recent developments in the synthesis, modification, utilization and application of colloids. The types covered range from metal nanoparticles through to inorganic particles and polymer latexes. Strategies for their modification to impart new properties will be outlined and ordered assemblies derived from colloid particles and some applications for colloids are shown. A multidisciplinary audience spread throughout academia and industry alike will certainly appreciate this first concise collection of knowledge in book form for this topic.