masterofnone,

Have you looked at the Galore Park science books? (I think it looks as though you'd want "So You Really Want to Learn Science," rather than the "Junior Science," which looks to be for younger kids.) I've not seen them in person, but I gather that they are what you are describing--no experiments, but a good framework around which to organise your knowledge of science. There are some sample pages on their website ( www.galorepark.co.uk ). There are biology, chemistry, and physics sections in each volume, I believe.

minnie