The Cambridge encyclopedia of child development /

Researchers Hopkins, Geangu, and Linkenauger (all, Lancaster Univ.) have edited an updated edition of this single-volume encyclopedia. Providing insights into child development that have recently arisen from the fields of neuroscience and developmental biology, this work strives to capture the rich interdisciplinary nature of its subject. The 124 entries are organized into 11 topical groups that connect concepts with similar developmental aspects (e.g., language, social/emotional, motor, and postnatal brain). Addressing topics of children's development up to adolescence, the entries cover theory and practice in equal measure. Each self-contained entry each written by a leading researcher, is succinctly written and accessible to a wide audience; this work is particularly approachable and useful for beginning researchers. The editors have achieved an elegant balance between the demands of neuroscientific approaches and developmental or psychological disciplines by addressing the widest possible range of sub-disciplines within the field. Charts, graphs, and illustrations, a few of which are in color, add to the accessibility of the text. This resource's comprehensive approach--presenting solid scientific background in a clear and practical style--make this an excellent choice for undergraduates beginning their study of human development. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Undergraduates and general readers. --Rachel Lynn Wadham, Brigham Young University