I know this is labeled as a high school biology book, but my high school didn’t go anywhere near as in-depth as this book goes. For example, the 4 compartments of the heart and how they operate?? Yeah I was NEVER taught that. I’m using it to catch up on any biology I wasn’t taught AND it’s GREAT for anatomy and physiology preparation. A&P requires the absorption of a lot of detailed information, and I started prepping for the cardiovascular system before I got this book and it was a lot to digest. But after going through this book and then returning to the Anatomy and physiology courses, it’s was SOOO much easier to take in everything. I even decided to use some of the pictures from the book.

Easy to understand and inviting too

The book is very informative but some people will have an issue with the way it is bound. The binding of the book makes it harder to flip the pages for what you need and mildly infuriates my friend.

I am working my way through this book. Take breaks while doing it. But it is a good book. I am not in Middle School myself, but I am using in hopes of taking future tests. So I think it is good for a refresher. I love these books. Not the only one I have used, but it is the only one I have kept pushing myself through.

8th Grade Homeschool Review: As a parent and homeschool educator, I've been using a set of books for 8th-grade homeschooling, and I'd like to share my thoughts. These books have proven to be a valuable resource in our homeschool journey. They provide a solid foundation for various subjects, covering a wide range of topics essential for 8th-grade students. What I appreciate most about these books is their comprehensive approach. They offer a well-structured curriculum that allows students to delve into subjects such as mathematics, science, literature, and history. The content is clear, and the exercises and activities help reinforce the learning process. However, it's worth noting that while these books are fantastic as guides, they might not provide all the answers. As with any educational materials, there may be moments when students need additional support or clarification. In such cases, we've found supplemental videos and other educational resources to be incredibly helpful. The combination of these books and supplementary materials has been the key to a well-rounded education. Subnote: This review is intended to serve as a general overview for all the books I'm currently using for 8th-grade homeschooling. If any of the books stand out, either for their exceptional quality or shortcomings, I will provide a more detailed review for that specific book. It's all about ensuring that our homeschooling experience is as enriching as possible.

Like the other books in the series, at least the ones I've purchased, this is a superb learning tool. This was actually my major in college so I'm more qualified this time to write a review. I think this book covers everything that you need to know in high school biology, generally with the right amount of detail. It covers the body systems well with a chapter devoted to each one. It's pretty good in evolution and reasonable in ecology. I know that publishers put limits on page numbers and so I think that this and the chemistry book waste a couple of chapters in the beginning on more abstract ideas that you really need to learn on the job and not from books. I mean things like broad scientific terminology and lab techniques. I feel this is precious room wasted. For instance the section on genetics is okay but genetics is a really hot topic and the basic concepts should be covered in some detail. As an example, the author only talks about part of the protein synthesis process (transcription) but, except for a quick blurb, he does not mention the rest of the process (translation and the famous picture of the genetic code). Two of the Covid vaccines are pieces of mRNA and the vaccines in these 2 cases are based on the principle of protein synthesis. In fact, as best as I can tell, the process of amino acids joining to become proteins is not explained anywhere, even in the organic molecule section. There, he uses a chart to explain the 4 major organic macromolecules. That's near the beginning of the book and is an important building concept. that requires a somewhat detailed explanation and a few pictures of the structure of the macromolecules. He got back to nucleic acids later on but he did not really get back to the other 3. He might have included a chapter on nutrition and vitamins where some of this stuff could be explained further. Of course, nowadays you can read with your phone next to you and Google any curiosity that you want to so none of these omissions are very crucial. I know you can't include everything so I might be nitpicking a bit. His discussion of atomic structure, the importance of water, and enzymes is very good. The chapters on cellular respiration and photosynthesis are superb and they are difficult subjects. The animal phyla section is super; I think it's a focus of any high school biology course. Overall, this is a really, really good and informative book. This is a book that should be on anyone's shelf, even adults that are really educated in this subject. It's a great read and it's a beautiful book. I highly recommend it.

I'm a science teacher who works with middle and high school students in a one-on-one setting. To say that they each have their own entry points into the curriculum is an understatement. I have recently taken on a student who is not only facing learning challenges but is working with me in her non-native language. Her English is head and shoulders above what my Farsi would be if our roles were reversed, but the sciences are filled with words with Greek and Latin roots that challenge even English-speaking students. This book, and the series it is a part of, is an amazing example of content rigor and kindness. It is accessible while it elevates. Its layout is disciplined but carefully crafted with highlighted vocabulary and relaxed but accurate illustrations, and each chapter ends with "check your knowledge" quiz questions that are a perfect way to go back and review without judgement. Full disclosure, I already had this volume and some of its siblings on my shelf and gave her my copy. This purchase is to replace it so we can read along together and create her notes. Both the Humanities and STEM volumes are worth every penny and are honestly just fun even if you aren't a teacher. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.