The problem with this book is the title. In fact, the subtitle, which does not appear on the front, states that it describes results from the Netherlands Climate Change Studies Assistance Programme (NCCSAP) and that is exactly what it does. As such, the material is based on case studies from the first stage of the NCCSAP project in 13 countries ranging from Bhutan to Zimbabwe. These case studies occupy pages 17–115 and inevitably include detailed analyses that relate to the location and circumstances of the specific region. Whilst interesting to those involved in each location, it is not easy to derive general principles that can be applied beyond the study sites. Pages 116–146 provide a cross-country synthesis – again for the countries involved in the NCCSAP project.

It is only between pages 147 and 169 where the book attempts to provide a wider perspective and describe lessons learned during the project. In their description, the publishers describe the book as of ‘significant interest to policy makers and researchers in the field of climate change’. I suggest the former more than the latter.