It is broadly accepted that understanding the genetic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms of neural develop- ment is essential for understanding evolution and disor- ders of neural systems. Recent advances in genetic, molecular, and cell biological methods have generated a massive increase in new information. By contrast, there is a paucity of comprehensive and up-to-date syntheses, references, and historical perspectives on this important subject. Therefore, we embarked on the formidable task of assembling a novel resource entitled ‘Comprehensive Developmental Neuroscience.’ We hope that the books in this series will serve as valuable references for basic and translational neuroscientists, clinicians, and students. paucity of comprehensive and up-to-date syntheses, references, and historical perspectives on this important subject. Therefore, we embarked on the formidable task of assembling a novel resource entitled ‘Comprehensive Developmental Neuroscience.’ We hope that the books in this series will serve as valuable references for basic and translational neuroscientists, clinicians, and students.