In the past twenty-five years, the evolution of eukaryotic cells and the role of symbiosis in this evolution have been exciting areas of scientific research. The authors . . . show how the fossil record, genetics, and molecular evolution all contribute to the studies of cell evolution. The book gives a balanced account of current controversies in this field. The book includes three on taxonomy, on the definition of a symbiont, and on the steps of horizontal gene transfer. A great deal of technical scientific detail is clearly presented and well-referenced, with 240 references cited. . . . Anyone interested in the evolution of eukaryotic cells will find this book very useful. (American Biology Teacher)