A handy reference rather than a comprehensive compendium is what Furetta (physics, U. of Rome-La Sapienza) had in mind. In alphabetical entries, he presents practical information for researchers, teachers, students, and technicians on thermoluminescence models, methods for determining the kinetic parameters, procedures for characterizing a thermoluminescent dosimetric system, terms commonly used in the literature, and other aspects. He does not consider solid state physics or thermoluminescent dating, which are treated in other widely available books. References are topic specific.