Edwin Lincoln Moseley (I 865-1948) was one of the pioneering naturalists of Ohio. His interests in natural history were exceptionally diverse and included botany, zoology, geology, and meteorology. Among his many accomplishments was the discovery of the cause of "milk sickness," in humans, or the "trembles" in livestock, a frequently lethal illness prevalent in the American midwest and the western frontier in the nineteenth century. A meticulous researcher, Moseley was the first to determine that milk sickness resulted from the consumption of the dairy products of cattle that had fed on the common woodland plant, white snakeroot (Eupatorium rugosum formerly called E. urticaefolium). His work on the flora of Ohio led to at least two botanical classics: "Sandusky Flora," and "Flora of the Oak Openings West of Toledo." Less well known interests include questions about the existence of extraterrestrial intelligence, published as his book in 1933. Moseley's scientific influence was extended by his efforts as an educator. Not only was he a charismatic teacher who helped pioneer outdoor education, but he was also the first to introduce natural history collections in a high school museum at Sandusky High School. In 1914 he became the first professor of science at Bowling Green State Normal College, which eventually became Bowling Green University. Completely devoted to his students, had Moseley even made the 1929 issue of the infamous Ripley's Believe It or Not! for his excellent attendance record--he had not missed one day of class through illness in 50 years.

 The book under review by Relda E. Niederhofer and Ronald L. Stuckey allows us to appreciate Moseley and the full diversity of his interests. Although the book is biographical in that it focuses on the life and work of Moseley, it is organized by topics, rather than follow the conventional chronological development of Moseley's life. There are three primary sections to the book: the first focuses on Moseley's personality and career, the second on his contributions and achievements and the final section concentrates on his writings and legacy. Each section is divided further into independent chapters. Most of these are original contributions by Niederhofer and Stuckey, but there are also historical reminiscences and reflections by key individuals who knew and appreciated Moseley. The book is rich in original photographic memorabilia and historical reproductions; many of these are from family collections that Niederhofer and Stuckey have made public. There are numerous tables, special illustrations, bibliographies, and chronologies that help us follow Moseley's life and work.

In addition to covering his scientific contributions, the book explores the personal side of Moseley. In the process Moseley emerges as an eccentric, but somewhat lovable character in the typical "absent-minded professor" mold. A complete stranger to creature comforts, Moseley wore old beaten up clothing and made his own tomato soup out of ketchup and boiling water. His considerable estate was donated to Bowling Green University to help the education of needy but worthy students. Reading this book I was struck by how closely Moseley's career followed the history and institutionalization of science in the state of Ohio. I suspect that in addition to introducing younger botanists to the lively character of Moseley, this may well prove to be the most valuable contribution of the book.

- Vassiliki Betty Smocovitis, Dept. History, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611