I have been involved with electronics as a hobbyist for over thirty years on and off. I own a book from 1985 authored by Mr. Marston. I still read it for his clear, concise and straightforward format. I purchased another book in this current series, 'Passive and Discrete Circuits' from Newnes Pocket Books-Electronics Circuits Pocket Book. It is a small format but it is justified when you see the volume of information contained. You can delve into theory of operation or just build some circuits knowing you have the info to modify, expand and create more complex circuits. If this book was in a larger format it would probably sell for fifty dollars. The size itself I find an asset. It is easily taken with you to read anywhere and has a tough cover to protect it's contents. Truly one of the best electronic books I have purchased at Amazon. The 'Linear IC' book in the series has slightly larger print than that of 'Passive and Discrete Circuits'. I am so impressed with this format from Newnes and the author; I also ordered the other volume in the series 'Digital Logic IC Pocket Book'
Mr. Marston offers a good mix of circuits and theory. If your just looking for circuits to build and move on, your better off with some of the Forrest Mimms's books. If your looking for circuits to build with the info available to modify and design for yourself this is a better purchase.