In twenty-two chapters, Modern Microbial Genetics attempts to present an in-depth, up-to-date picture of the genetics of prokaryotes. To the more than thirty contributing authors of the volume, microbial genetics is synonymous with bacterial genetics. Section 1: DNA Metabolism discusses on a high level molecular genetic processes within bacterial cells. Topics include, among others, DNA replication, the regulation of gene expression, the action of phages, and recombination. Section 2: Genetic response is devoted to the interaction of bacterial cells with their environment. Quorum sensing, retreat into spore formation when conditions become unfavourable, physiological response to environmental stress and the interactions of Agrobacterium are examples of the subject matters encountered in this part which encompasses a total of seven chapters. Section 3: Genetic exchange gives an in-depth treatment of the interaction of bacteria with other bacterial cells and the acquisition of foreign genetic material, respectively. Only quite recently we have come to get a glimpse of the incredible dynamics of intercellular genetic communication among prokaryotes. Genetic mechanisms such as transformation, conjugation and transduction -often referred to with a wink as "bacterial sex" by lecturers -have for a long time been largely regarded as interesting academic curiosities. The true scope of these phenomena in nature and their profound implications for microbial evolution are becoming increasingly clear. Mainly due to investigations into the molecular causes underlying the worrying spread of antibiotic resistance, these equally fascinating as well as practically important topics have gained attention. Modern Microbial Genetics is an advanced textbook designed and suitable for users with background knowledge. To make full use of it, prior exposure to general biochemistry and genetics (some microbiology would be useful, too) is of necessity. The suitably initiated will but find a cornucopia of wisdom filled to the rim. The text is dense with information but (given the expert level of the presentation) astonishingly readable. Advanced undergraduate students of microbiology and biotechnology should greatly profit from this fine treatise and will probably adopt it to accompany relevant lectures and practical courses and preparation for examinations. Due to the plethora of facts and well thought-out explanations, graduate students will also find it to be a very valuable source of information during their work. Finally, those who teach microbial genetics at all levels will come to appreciate it as a reliable guide. All chapters of the book are individually and thoroughly referenced. Because readers will have sufficient background knowledge, individual chapters may be used independently for specific purposes such as brushing up one's knowledge of a specialised topic. The book is text-based but figures and tables are included where appropriate. Figures are in black-and-white only. This and the manufacturing quality of the book (paper, printing, binding), which is very good, reinforce the sober but solid impression that the volume conveys. A useful and valuable addition to any microbiological library, personal or institutional!