The terminology, philosophy, and major characters of Hinduism may be unfamiliar to some readers. Vemsani (history, Shawnee State Univ., Portsmith, OH; editor, International Journal of Dharma and Hindu Studies) aims to "[bring] disparate information on Krishna together in an easy-to-read, accessible form to anyone interested in learning about Krishna in particular and Hinduism in general." This encyclopedia focuses on as many aspects as possible of the phenomenon of Krishna: first as a figure of history, then as the object of thought, devotion, and fables throughout the Indian subcontinent and the world. Other major people and philosophies are profiled in concert with their relationship with Krishna. For instance, one fascinating entry describes the interaction between Islam and Krishna, including several syncretic offshoots of the two religious traditions. A major help is the basic glossary in the back. Overall, the entries are clear, succinct, and readable. Other useful features are an alphabetical and topical list of items, a general bibliography, entry-specific bibliographies, and numerous cross-references. Other titles give a complete picture of Hinduism, but this volume would bring further depth and detail as a secondary resource. Many reference books focus strictly on the formal aspects of Hinduism, but this selection includes folk literature and beliefs. VERDICT This work will primarily appeal to undergraduate and graduate students studying religion, as well as to general readers interested in Indian history, religion, and culture. Suitable for academic and large public libraries.—Ray Arnett, Fremont Area Dist. Lib., MISciences