AAAS Atlas of Population and Environment (ISBN 0520230817)

A great introduction but a little dry:
This book is an excellent introduction to environmental issues from the standpoint of population and its impact on the environment. It has interesting case studies from around the globe and engaging illustrations that really convey an understanding of the state of the world. However, I would have liked to see a more prescriptive section with recommendations for action as well. I recommend checking out the table of contents on the "Look inside" link, because the TOC is very representative in this book's case. I also recommend checking out World Resources 2000-2001, the companion book to Bill Moyers' series "Earth on Edge." It's perhaps a bit more engaging although not as focused on population.

Great & unique reference work:
I'm a science journalist, and have no shortage of access to excellent science and excellent reference sources on a huge range of topics. But after finding a copy of this in my organization's library, I went out of my way to buy my own copy, and it will have a critical place in my personal reference library for a long time. The range of topics is excellent, the maps and information graphics are (for the most part) very well done, and the text succinctly summarizes key science in a broad range of subject areas. Definitely worth the price -- I'm thrilled to have this.