I haven't had a chance to read the new up-dated edition, but have an older edition. I enjoyed very much the edition I have & can't imagine that new information that's been added would do anything but improve it.

Dr. Postgate is a professor of microbiology at Sussex University & not only knows his field extensively, but has made a vast & difficult subject [for many] very understandable & interesting. He's not only a scientist but an excellent writer.

If anyone wishes to demystify microbes & learn how they affect us in everyday ways, & the impact they have on our planet, I highly recommend this book.