This is a most valuable contribution to paediatric diagnosis which highlights the importance of this essentially visual method in the study of practical paediatric problems. Each topic consists of a concise, informative and scholarly text supported, where appropriate, by key references, many giving a historical perspective. There are over 400 high quality colour plates with descriptive legends, many of which analyse in some detail the individual features of a face regarded as abnormal or dysmorphic, often a necessary practical prerequisite to establishing a definitive diagnosis. The importance of recognising subtle expressive changes and 'facial signals' is considered in relation to emotional disorders. Throughout, the book is leavened by tables listing important diagnostic clues, cranio-facial or otherwise.