Review on Simple Guide Fresh Water Aquariums by Lindsay Parker

I really enjoyed referencing this book when setting up my first 55 gallon aquarium. Boruchowitz writes in a friendly, funny tone while remaining informative. I particularly appreciate the placement ideas - he listed several groups of fish that 1) will not overpopulate your aquarium, 2) usually coexist peacefully, and 3) are suitable for novice aquarists. Definitely helps in the planning phase. The only thing I disagree with is his method of cycling. However, the book was written in 01, so 13 years is a long time to change standard protocols. Instead of cycling with the hardy fish species Boruchowitz first mentioned that can be stressful on fish, you can now buy pure ammonia and cycle without the fish. Just make sure it's clean and free of surfactants or dyes. Add some straight into the tank as food for the good bacteria and it will circulate. I found something at Ace Hardware.