Book excerpt: The second edition of this excellent and highly popular textbook continues to address the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth) syllabus for trainee ophthalmologists and is an essential read for those studying ophthalmology, optometry and orthoptics. As a theoretical and practical aid, it guides readers through postgraduate Ophthalmic Specialist Training. Emphasis is placed on the practical assessment and management of key ophthalmic conditions. Clearly laid out and highly illustrated in full colour throughout, each condition is discussed in two or three-pages, beginning with general explanations of the pathophysiology and clinical evaluation, followed by differential diagnoses and treatment options. This thoroughly revised second edition includes new chapters on paediatric ophthalmology, refractive surgery and microsurgical skills. This text will appeal to foundation doctors, specialist trainees in ophthalmology, candidates preparing for the Fellowship of the Royal College of Ophthalmology (FRCOphth) examination, consultants in ophthalmology and practitioners looking for a comprehensive but accessible guide to the subject.