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Excerpt
This work is written in a friendly and simple style. As an introduction to frame and lens concepts, the text serves as a starting point for a new employee or first-year student in any optical technology program. The coverage is broad and accurate, and the topics are not covered in too great detail. As the author states in her introduction, this work is meant to provide a framework or foundation to study in the field of ophthalmic optics. Although the author refers to topics necessary for technician examinations, this book would not be sufficient for exam preparation. The book provides a basic approach to many aspects of lenses and frames; but the student would need to continue study with a work offering more in-depth treatment to prepare fully for a licensing examination. FIGURE
Carlton expressly proposes this work as an entry-level text. As such, it is well needed and should be well received. Some areas to highlight are the coverage on frame materials and the chapter on instrumentation and measurements. Instruction on the proper procedures for lensometry and measurements of pupillary distance, vertex distance, base curves, and frame and lens sizes are covered in stepwise, easy-to-understand fashion. The more complex topics of prism and base curves are treated with gentleness and simplicity. Several areas, such as frame selection, lens design, and frame repair might have been covered in a little more depth.
The illustrations are very useful. Clearly, the author endeavored to use drawings and photographs to present difficult concepts in an understandable fashion. Unfortunately, the quality of the illustrations is lacking. In some photographs, contrast is poor, and the brightness often differs between paired photographs. Many of the drawings are blurred, lacking crispness and clarity. In some illustrations, the white background appears smudged, and the scanned nature of some of the photographs is evident.
Although shortcomings in appearance leave doubt as to the overall quality of the work, they should not undermine the sound and basic presentation of material. This book is effective as a primer on frames and lenses and would be useful for any novice or person entering the ophthalmic profession. It would certainly be a valuable addition to any eye-care reference collection.
