The tremendous scope of this book is indicated by the list of 2,536 references, 40 of which are original papers by the authors. Its composition is evident from the detailed outlines of subject matter within each chapter. Furthermore, subtitles, in large type and often underscored as well, are used freely throughout the text. In addition there are 54 figures and 26 tables, for the most part original arrangements by the authors. From the assurance with which every phase of the subject is discussed, it appears that this book is not only a review and compilation but also a reinvestigation of many of the important points discussed in the papers that have been reviewed. Eleven chapters deal with the normal body content of water, intracellular and extracellular partition, water exchange and the forces of control and equilibrium, sources of water, elimination, and neurohormonal regulation (hypophysis, suprarenal cortex, medulla, thyroid, gonads, and