All of these questions, and more, are answered in the 109th edition of the Pears Cyclopaedia. This useful reference source is updated annually by a team of experts. Each of the 12 sections is arranged alphabetically, chronologically or has a detailed Table of Contents. Short, concise entries inform the reader about major cultural, religious, scientific, political, geographic and religious figures, terms or events. The book includes specialised in-depth entries, Special Topics, on such subjects as Modern Molecular Biology, Renaissance Art and Latin American Music.

Pears Cyclopaedia 2000-2001 includes a plethora of subjects, from the changing political world, current economic and environmental issues and debates, Prominent People and the cinema, to buying a house and tax issues, among many other topics. From the crisis in Zimbabwe, GM Crops and Endangered Species, to Black Writers in Britain and Alzheimer's Disease, Pears Cyclopaedia 2000-2001 provides easily accessible information in an affordable way, making it a recommended addition to any respectable bookshelf. --Aruna Vasudevan

Appropriately for the Millennium edition the book focuses on the changing world scene, with articles on the volatile political situations in central Africa, the Balkans and the Middle East. Much is made of the advanced rates of change across the board and particular attention is paid to the changing political and economic situations in the UK, including House of Lords reform and the advent of the Scottish Parliament.

The Computers section takes an in-depth look at the Internet, detailing not only key words and terms but also many issues which have arisen as its popularity has increased--democracy and regulation, business use, and a look to the future with a brief overview of the convergence of broadcast, telephone and computer systems. For those not entirely conversant with the new technology, this detailed examination will provide a good reference for confusing terminology; for others it is a thought-provoking examination of an increasingly important part of our everyday lives.

The literary companion deals with topics as diverse as the enduring appeal of Shakespeare, classic children's literature, post-war British theatre and science fiction, in addition to a comprehensive introduction to the English novel and a glossary of literary terms. Asthma comes under the spotlight in Medical Matters, while popular stage musicals and the world of Rock are topics of conversation in the World of Music.

Covering all strata of culture, Pears Cyclopaedia 1999-2000 is an essential reference work for anyone interested in the complexities of society, both in the UK and throughout the world. --Lucie Naylor

2006-05-08 Still Going strong