No one can read this book without gaining valuable knowledge concerning water metabolism. Adolph and ten associates summarize studies made for an Army contract on adaptation to the desert. The book is not written solely for physiologists but also for physicians and intelligent Army officers who have to use this knowledge. Since Adolph is one of the foremost physiologists working in this field, the book is authoritative. The style is clear and the index and arrangement of material permits ready reference.
The chief factor in the adaptation to a desert climate is dissipation of heat by evaporation of water. Heat is added from metabolism, from air warmer than the skin, and from radiant energy.