The study of international law has been plagued in recent times by what seems to be a disconnect from real world politics. In Thomas R. Van DervortÆs new book, international law is introduced as a dynamic process with an explicit connection to the contemporary realpolitik. International Law and Organization begins with an historical overview of the development of international law, starting with ancient Rome and continuing up through the present day. Part II considers the basic principles of international law in specific fields and focuses on the application of international legal principles in domestic courts. Part III covers law on an international plane in its discussion of disputes between sovereign nation-states. This text is intended to provide a basic understanding of, and to spark student interest in, the field of international law.