Encyclopedia of Nonlinear Science, edited by A. Scott and just published by Routledge, New York, 2005, as I think, will be one of the most important publications of this year and, probably, of many next years.



Already the first glance at the book strikes by the astonishing variety of topics covered in one volume. This is achieved by effectively combining a mathematically accurate language with the simplicity of presentation, without overloading the material by formulas. Sufficiently simple and transparent presentation makes this book easy to read for

students, starting from the undergraduate level and up, as well as for general scientists interested in grasping the essence of nonlinear phenomena. These phenomena are so common and widespread in Nature, being familiar in Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Geology, Medicine, and Social Sciences, that it looks impossible to find any one discipline which would have no

relation to them.



The simplicity and clarity of presentation, combined with a rather precise formulations, make the material of the Encyclopedia available to practically anyone. Those who would wish to go to more detailed studies will find a sufficient list of references to both historical publications as well as to the current scientific literature. The Editor, Alwyn Scott, has made a great job in supporting this nice and rare style combining the clarity and brevity of the entries with their accurateness.



I have no doubt that this Encyclopedia is a must for any

university library. And to enjoy having it at home would be a pleasure and help for any scientist.



V.I. Yukalov

Mercator Professor



Institut fur Theoretische Physik,

Freie Universitat Berlin,

Arnimallee 14, D-14195 Berlin, Germany