Book excerpt: This 1992 book provides a coherent and comprehensive treatment of the thermodynamics and gas dynamics of the practical Stirling cycle. Invented in 1816, the Stirling engine is the subject of worldwide research and development on account of unique qualities - silence, indifference to heat source, low level of emissions when burning conventional fuels and an ability to function in reverse as heat pump or refrigerator. The student of engineering will discover an instructure and illuminating case study revealing the interactions of basic disciplines. The researcher will find the groundwork prepared for various types of computer simulation, Those involved in the use and teaching of solution methods for unsteady gas dynamics problems will find a comprehensive treatment on nonlinear and linear wave approaches, for the Stirling machine provides an elegant example of the application of each. The book will be of use to all those involved in researching, designing or manufacturing Stirling prime movers, coolers and related regenerative thermal machines.