Body engagingly reveals the complex and fascinating systems of the human machine—from head to toe, cells to skin, inner workings to outward appearance. Organized by body system, the chapters offer a balanced combination of basic anatomical and physiological information.

Noted science writers Lisa Stein, Trisha Gura, and Patricia Daniels provide descriptions that are clear, accurate, and accessible to readers on every level. Colorful diagrams, amazing photographs, and miraculous 3- and 4-dimensional imagery—generated by cutting-edge tools—complement the text. The drawings of visionaries such as Leonardo Da Vinci illustrate historic advances in medical science.

Special-topic sidebars address today's most relevant concerns such as keeping healthy and medical breakthroughs.

For easy reference, each chapter includes its own glossary of terms. Cross-referencing tools guide readers to related information and an appendix offers a full glossary, timeline of medical discoveries, and biographies of key pioneers in the field.

Enhancing this book's authority are a foreword by acclaimed neurologist Richard Restak, bestselling author of 18 books on the brain; and the guidance of advisers from prestigious medical establishments.

• Hardcover
• 416 pages, 300 color photos and diagrams
• 9 1/8 x 10 7/8
• © 2007

Patricia Daniels has written extensively on science and health. Among her publications are Time-Life's Human Body, Childhood Medical Guide, and Medical Advisor.

Trisha Gura holds a Ph.D in molecular biology from Northwestern University. Her articles can frequently be found in Science, Nature, New Scientist, and Scientific American.

Lisa Stein is a former editor with U.S. News and World Report. Her articles on health and science have appeared in AP, UPI, and the National Journal.

"Long known for stunning photography and quality prose, the National Geographic Society brings those qualities to bear on this enthralling exploration of the human body."—starred review, Publishers Weekly

"...a comprehensive reference that is both useful and appropriate for the layman...a text that is as meticulous and thorough as it is fun."—Kirkus