This book details the anatomy and physiology of the auditory system, with well-balanced coverage of the peripheral and central nervous systems, and an emphasis on clinical applications of the scientific theory. The clinical correlates make for very interesting reading, often including key research reviews or case studies relevant to a practising audiologist. I found the science more relevant and easier to grasp though these links to clinical practice. The second edition also adds a useful chapter on development, auditory system plasticity and ageing effects that focuses on clinical implications of lifetime changes of the auditory system.
The layout of text, figures and clinical correlates is easy to read and well-organised. The level of detail and size of this book do make it heavy going occasionally; although logically set out, it’s not a book to read cover to cover. However by dipping into relevant chapters and using the extensive index for cross-chapter topics it’s extremely informative. The detail and complexity of this book would not be easily accessible to anyone without a foundation of audiological anatomy, physiology and clinical knowledge, but that is what makes me confident in recommending this book to both graduate students and existing practitioners.
Overall I feel it is good value for the sheer volume of information and the topic coverage this book provides. I have found it interesting, thought-provoking and well written for its target audience. As a masters student, it has been very useful to me as a source of information, explanations and key reference material for further reading I feel that once qualified I would refer back to this text in the future. 5/5.
