Book excerpt: This is an introductory text to the science of neurobiology, describing animal nervous systems, what they consist of, how they work, and how they are studied. Unlike many other neurobiology texts, considerable discussion is given to both human and non-human nervous systems. Written in an easy-to-read style, it will be useful for both biology and medical students. It provides the opportunity for self-testing at the end of each chapter, with objectives and questions. A CD-ROM entitled 'The Human Brain' (ISBN 3-540-14666-0) has been produced to accompany this text, and can be purchased either separately or together with the book (ISBN 3-540-63778-8).