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Two heavy volumes are the result of a "star-studded" cast of contributors who have created not only another textbook of allergy but also a reference book that will be useful for all students of allergy. Each of the 63 chapters can be read as a free-standing monograph on a particular subject. Volume 1 has three sections reviewing contemporary knowledge of immunology, physiology, and pharmacology as needed to critically understand the clinical sciences in vol 2, which contain in-depth reviews of entities now considered to encompass the discipline of allergy. For instance, in vol 1, the chapter, "Physiology of the Nose, Paranasal Sinuses and Middle Ear" prepares the reader for the chapter on "Nasal Polyps and Sinusitis" and "Otitis Media" in vol 2. Ironically, neither author puts much credence in IgE-mediated reactions being directly responsible for middle ear effusions and chronic otitis media of childhood. It is stated, "In selected