This is an update of a classic text first published in 1970 as Plant Cell Physiology: A Physicochemical Approach. Although it has since changed its name, there have been minimal changes since the first edition (published in 1991). Nevertheless, the book remains a rigorous and reliable text covering many aspects of the basic biophysics of plant physiology and of plant interactions with the environment, with its well-recognized emphasis on a quantitative approach.

Notwithstanding its merits, it is unfortunately now showing its age. I was disappointed that this new edition, or should I say reprint, hardly acknowledges the substantial advances in both techniques and understanding that have been made in recent years, and which are important in much agricultural research. Although references to some recent papers have been included, these mostly do not appear to be referred to in the text. A few additional figures and minor clarifications have been introduced, but there is no, or limited, coverage of important developments in fields such as the use of stable isotopes, and the use of chlorophyll fluorescence or thermal imaging as diagnostic or phenotyping tools. Similarly, there is unfortunately limited analysis of the problems of scaling up gas exchange and energy balance to canopies, or even further. Coverage of important topics such as global climate change appears to have been limited to the addition of a couple of pages.

Although all those interested in a rigorous approach to plant biophysics should have a copy of one of the editions, there seems little reason to buy this new edition rather than seeking out a second-hand earlier edition, which would be better value.