The time for biotechnology has come: it is increasingly influencing our daily lives - and yet, not only laypeople but often students and scientists lack a solid understanding. The introductory textbook by Reinhard Renneberg offers a remedy and a wealth of information: a clearly written and visually rich overview of biotechnology. It is suitable for quick reference as well as for leisurely reading or intensive study. The first edition of the book was enthusiastically received and, after nearly twelve years, it is now available in its fifth edition - completely revised and expanded with numerous exciting boxes. As Renneberg demonstrates, a scientific textbook can indeed be engaging and entertaining. Various didactic elements complement the core text of the fifth edition.