Product Description
Take a learning journey through billions of years of Earth history

This indispensable guide to the fundamentals of geology is the ideal way to introduce yourself to all the basics, from rocks, minerals, and fossil fuels to earthquakes, volcanoes, and plate tectonics. Using quick quizzes and self-tests to reinforce key concepts, Geology carefully walks you through billions of years of Earth history. Illustrated with more than one hundred specially commissioned illustrations and fifty photographs that help clarify difficult concepts, this easy-to-follow book is an interactive resource for anyone interested in learning more about our planet.

Whether you are new to geology or want to refresh and update your knowledge, the proven self-teaching guide approach will allow you to work at your own pace, check your progress, and learn more about this fascinating field of study. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Generally good.
Not as high level as I would have liked, but generally a good book.Pictures are black and white, not so good for geology.

It's a good start
I am interested in Geology, so I figured this book would be a good basis in learning this particular subject.
So far, I think this will work!!

Just the facts, maam.
This and others in the self-teaching series provide the reader with an overview of the topic.It highlights and essentials and makes it easy to understand the basics.There are no frills, but who needs them? This is great for students who need to know just the facts, maam.

Good for beginners
I taught a course that used this book along with a few others. At first I thought this book was overly simplistic, but upon further review, and numerous positive comments from my students (teachers who were working to get certification credits actually), I can now see that this book has a lot of valuable geologic information in an easy to read format. This book presents a lot of important geologic topics without getting overly technical, which is good for beginning students, those that are simply curious (like the other review by a rockhound) or those that want a quick brush-up. At the end of each chapter there are quizes to help the reader review the material. This is helpful for some, but not for others (in which case you can always ignore them). For the class I taught we used this book in conjunction with The Earth System, Second Edition which I liked better but many of the students found difficult to read.

Wow! Something I can understand!
Knowing only the least rudimentaries on geology, this book has been invaluable to this amateur rockhound. Easy to understand concepts. I'm reading this book without the benefit of classes and its still great! ... Read more

Product Description
For courses in physical geology and introduction to geology This tenth edition of Essentials of Geology offers completely updated material and an extensively revised design, yet retains the hallmarks instructors have come to expect from Lutgens and Tarbuck - a student-friendly writing style, outstanding illustrations by Dennis Tasa that are both geologically accurate and visually appealing, and updated coverage of the most recent geologic events. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

My book
The book I received was in great condition. better than i thought it would be and i received it pretty quickly.

Good Buy!
Good course book, just be sure you need it for the class.Some professors don't require you to have it, so if you can save the money, by all means...DO IT!

Excellent Text
Had to buy this for a class I was auditing. GREAT diagrams and pictures. Figure 19.22 on page 460, "The evolution of life through geologic time" has literally changed my life. It finalized my view on how life came to be. It shows the fossilized progression of life from the first cyanobacteria 3.8 billion years to the evolution of the genus Homo. I'm convinced Darwin was right. Since that metamorphic moment, I have done little (I'm retired) other than read about evolution and its battle for acceptance in the non-scientific world.

Excellent book - well written too.

Essentials of Geology
The book has a wealth of information, I have enjoyed reading it, and using it in my class.

A good textbook for the the physical geology student
This book is intended as a text for the collegiate course in physical geology.The course encompasses a general overview of the physical processes by which the Earth continues to develop, both gradually and by sudden events of great magnitude. Plate tectonics, volcanism, erosion, mountain building and shaping, mineralogy, mass wasting, the impact of man, glaciation, and all other manner of things are clearly discussed in nineteen separate chapters.The color photography and diagrams are remarkably good, and closely follow the text, which is a real boon, especially to a student who is hard-pressed for time.The coverage is up-to-date and accurate in all respects.Many of the photographs, such as the those of the eruptions at Montserrat, are very current.

Given the fact that physical geology is the first of six courses required for any geology degree, and that any well-informed person should have no trouble understanding the contents of this book, I would recommend it to any reader interested in earth science, student or not. ... Read more

Product Description

From exploring the basic principles of geology to starting a rock and mineral collection, The Practical Geologist is the perfect introduction to the world of earth science.

Beginning with a history of the earth's formation and development, this book explores the substances that compose the planet, movements within the earth, the surface effects of weather and water, and underground landscapes.

It shows you how to search for, identify, and extract samples of various rocks and minerals, and for each rock and mineral type there is a brief mineralogy and explanation of its locations. There are also sections on mapping, preparing, and curating specimens, and geological sites on the six continents.

Packed with more than 200 full-color illustrations, this comprehensive guide is the essential practical companion for natural science enthusiasts everywhere. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Amazing Read
This book is great for begginers or if you just want to refresh your memory. It breaks everything down and makes it easy to understand the basics and some of the more complicated aspects of geology. I would highly recommend this book.

Great book for the big picture
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I am an aspiring amateur geologist, and for me getting the big picture is paramount. I have other books, many going into great depth, but I just needed something to get me going quickly. This book did it.

The one thing that I didn't like is that the terminology is introduced sporadically; for instance during the description of the "spheres" of the earth, while discussing the mantle and crust, the lithosphere and asthenosphere were not mentioned. Yet in a much later chapter, they were casually mentioned. I suppose my initial love of the "big picture" would fly in the face of this, but just thought I'd mention it.

If you are interested in Geology, this is worth the investment.

This is the book you've been waiting for!
I have owned at least 5 books on the intro to Geology and this one is brilliant.The Author's uses only 2 pages per topic with each of the2 pages using colour photographs along with the text where necessary includes graphs and tables.Right to the point with an easy to understand text leaving you a complete knowledge of the topic!

Authors of non-fiction books need to take notice on how to do this as they just haven't gotten it and are much to verbose.I give the a 5 star+++.I look forward these Author's future books.

Excellent!!!
This book is an excellent addition to my sons library!He said it has the most amazing pictures and commentary that he's seen.

A rocky read
Among my many interests, geology has always been lurking in the background, one that I never really pursued but nonetheless seemed worth knowing about.For this reason, I finally got around to getting a book on the topic, and picked out The Practical Geologist by Dougal Dixon.Although it isn't a bad book, it was also not the wisest choice for me.

As the title indicates, this is a book for the practical geologist, one that goes out to sites to assess the landscape:the types of rocks, the shape of the hills, et cetera.There are plenty of illustrations and photographs to assist the reader, along with information about how to write up notes and set up displays.

All this is wonderful in its own way, but for the true geological layman like myself, it is a bit more than what I wanted.That is to say, as an introduction to geology, this book is not wholly successful:while never getting overly technical, it also doesn't offer enough in the way of explanation.Instead, it just presents the facts and moves onto the next topic.It reads a bit more like a reference book than a regular science book.

The back of the book describes The Practical Geologist as the "perfect introduction to the world of earth science".This is not really the case.Nonetheless, I am giving this book four stars:I think that what this book does, it does well.If you're looking for a first book on geology, however, I would search elsewhere. ... Read more

Product Description
Twenty-five years after writing the groundbreaking Roadside Geology of Northern California, David Alt and Donald W. Hyndman have written an entirely new book--with expanded coverage, new photos and maps, and the latest interpretations of California's turbulent rocks. Geologic road guides include tours of Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Lava Beds National Monument, Kings Canyon National Park, Point Reyes National Seashore, and the San Francisco Bay area. Learn about earthquake prediction, gold mining, pillow basalts, cinder cones, and more with this book as your guide. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Informative Geology Guide book
Have enjoyed reading this book, I've found it very informative. I found it easy to understand with geologic terms explained in everyday terms. I definitely would recommend this book.

Roadside Geology at 60mph
I was extremely disappointed with this book.It does provide a macro description of the geology of Northern California, but the title does not match the contents.I was looking for a book that would give specific locations and features to observe at those locations.Locations given are very vague, on the order of "about 5 miles".Just hitting the highlights, it takes a full day just to see some of the major geologic features on the west side of Lake Tahoe, but this region is covered in only three pages of text.

Again, it does provide a macro description of Central and Northern California's geology by describing the major rock units, but is short on detail and specific locations.

Geology for Everyone
Road trips become much more interesting when you understand what you're seeing.This book provides many geologic insights into how the earth was formed and in particular the amazing geology of California and the Sierras.We used this book during our recent trip to Mono Lake, a video of which I posted on Youtube [...].If you're at all curious about the world around you, buy this book!

Fun and useful book
I've used this book many times over the years on trips up and down the state of California. Driving up interstate 5, it can turn an otherwise boring trip up the central valley into something actually fun. For example, the author explains that the low moutains that parallel much of I-5 to the west in the central and north valley are known as the Central Valley Sequence, and mark the subduction zone for the Pacific and north American plates. Very cool. I'd been driving by those mountains for twenty years before I brought Alt's book on one trip and discovered that.

Clearly and concisely written, it's an interesting guide to the observable geological features of much of California. Although not for real rock hounds or petrologists, it still dispenses a great deal of interesting and useful information, and will be especially helpful to fans of natural history who lack formal training in geology but who want to learn something about it for their state.

Roadside Geology of Northern and Central California
This is definitely a good book. I have already taken it on a few road trips, and have had a good time learning about the geology of the area I was at. It has also been updated with more info about the bay area (compared to the older prints). ... Read more

Product Description
A substantial revision of an already successful text, the Third Edition of Essentials of Geology combines an accurate and engaging narrative with exceptional visual and pedagogical elements.It is supported by a complete learning and teaching package. Innovative media, such as Geotours—which take students on virtual field trips using Google Earth™—make it possible for instructors to bring real-world geology to life in the classroom. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Class Textbook
Great discount on Amazon.com price compared to college book store. Shipped quickly and in great condition. This book was just the book she needed for class.

Geology 3rd Edition
This book in particular Starts with the beginning of earths formation and the birth of plate tectonics, and how it is related to the birth of geology. This book basically is for Class purposes, my professor has decided to use it because it has great illustrations and a very detailed approach to the subject. I think its one of the better, more interesting takes on Geology. [coming from a person who had to drop the first Geology class because the book was just words and no pictures] If you are visual and enjoy learning (outside of class room requirements) the basics about Geology then you must definitely consider this book!

Hardback Customer
This is possible the best science text book I've ever used. It has a very colorful, organized layout with a lot of pictures/models to illustrate topics being covered. My only complaint is that my copy is a paperback, and as far as I know, it is not available in hardback. It doesn't wear very well. However, it is still an awesome GeoScience book.

Good Intro to Geology Textbook with Great Pictures
You probably aren't going to buy this if it is not required for a class, but it is a well written geology textbook. The pictures are great and it is very up-to-date and organized well. If you want to learn the basics on your own, I'd recommend this book. It is the required Introduction to Geology textbook for many universities.

Absolutely first rate in every way
This book is superbly written, illustrated, and organized.It was a pleasure to read and is a reliable guide to the subject matter.My professor said first day of class that this book is what every other geology text should aspire to, and I heartily agree with him.

The text reflects the newest scholarship, e.g. on mechanisms of plate tectonics, but is always concise and readable.Virtually every point is illustrated with charts, photographs, or drawings -- like having natural history museum exhibits right in the book.The large scale drawing showing, e.g. overall views of watersheds, or cut-away view of volcanoes or caves, are the best I have seen anywhere.This is important, because, as is the case with anatomy, this is an area where paintings are usually much clearer than photographs.

The newest features keep the book up to date with links, e.g., to Google Earth images.

In short, if your prof has assigned this book, be happy.If you are looking for a book to use to learn geology on you own, this is the one.

... Read more

Product Description
Few places in the nation rival Yosemite National Park for vertigo-inducing cliffs, plunging waterfalls, and stunning panoramic views of granite peaks. Many of the features that visitors find most tantalizing about Yosemite have unique and compelling geologic stories tales that continue to unfold today in vivid, often destructive ways. While visiting these more than twenty-seven amazing sites, you ll discover why many of Yosemite s domes shed rock shells like onion layers, what happens when a volcano erupts under a glacial lake, and why rocks seem to be almost continually tumbling from the region s cliffs. With a multitude of colorful photos and illustrations, and prose tooled for the lay reader, Geology Underfoot in Yosemite National Park will help you read the landscape the way a geologist does.
The Geology Underfoot series encourages you to get out of your car for an up-close look at rocks and landforms. These books inform and enlighten, no matter how much or how little geology you already know. What s more, they re simply good reading, on-site or at home. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

History and geology blend in a fine addition to any California collection
Geology Underfoot in Yosemite National Park offers California collections a fine geology-based survey of natural wonders and sites in Yosemite Park. Over twenty-five sites are covered in a fine blend of colorful photos and illustrations and keys to understanding how geologists view the environment. History and geology blend in a fine addition to any California collection!

Great read if you're into this stuff...
Fascinating read....Since I live near by, the book has prompted me to take some day trips to a couple of places near the park that I didn't know exist... ... Read more

Product Description
The rocks and landforms have not changed much since the publication of the first edition of the Roadside Geology of Colorado in 1980, but our understanding of them has. With expanded coverage, updated maps, new photographs, and the latest geologic interpretations, this nontechnical guide introduces you to the tumultuous geological history of Colorado s mountains, plateaus, and plains. The second edition includes tours of Black Canyon in Gunnison National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, Dinosaur National Monument, Great Sand Dunes National Monument and Preserve, Mesa Verde National Park, and Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Colorado Geology
It is great fun to be traveling along the highway and read about the various rock strata.Tidbits of information such as the fact that a nuclear bomb was exploded at the bottom of a wellnear Rulison to see if the fractured rock would release more natural gas, however the gas from the well was slightly radioactive and couldn't be used.The well is now sealed off and no drilling is allowed in the vicinity.
We are enjoying this book.

Colorado geology book
This is an easy to use book and you can follow along while you are traveling in Colorado. My only disappointment is that there are not enough very basic, layman's pictures. The book has many diagrams,and charts are most are easy enough to understand, but I personally would have liked to see more targeted to the "armchair geologist" driving through the state.

In fairness, the book does not say it's for laymen and each chapter is easy to read and follow. But, "pictures say a 1000 words."

Enjoyed It
Good read!If you have an interest in geology, then this is a reference that should be kept in the car with your maps at all times.It is great to have this book handy whenever you are out for a drive, because so much of Colorado's geology has been uncovered in the process of roads being cut through the mountains.Very little hiking required, since all sites in this book can be seen from the road and are easily accessible.

I purchased this book because I live in Colorado, but it is part of a series that includes a driving geology of many other states.You might want to check to see if they have written one for your state - I am going to buy ROADSIDE GEOLOGY OF HAWAII, because my family is planning a vacation to Maui in a few weeks.

Roadside Geology of Colorado
An excellent book, it is very concise and the information is very detailed and presented in a way that both the layman can understand and a geologist can appreciate. I highly recommend this book !!

Great book
Living in Colorado you have no choice but to see all the different rock formations. I remember seeing people/students on the side of the road in Morrison looking for fossils on my way to watch the drag races at bandimere. We picked this up when we went to the florissant fossil beds and have left in the 4Runner ever since. It's easy to read and you would be surprised how many hours can go by while just talking about formations you see out the window. ... Read more

Product Description
To understand timely issues such as natural disasters and environmental challenges–and to evaluate solutions to related problems–the average citizen needs a basic awareness of the scientific principles that influence our planet. This trusted book makes an often-complex subject accessible to readers with a strong focus on readability and illustrations. Offers a meaningful, non-technical survey that is informative and up to date for learning basic principles and concepts. Includes a revised and expanded GEODe Earth CD-ROM. Updates and revises art and illustrations to include dozens of new high-quality, photographs carefully selected to aid understanding and add realism. Provides a wealth of new special-interest boxes, including "Earth as a System," "People and the Environment," and "Understanding Earth." A useful reference for anyone interested in learning more about Earth's geology. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Good Enough
Got what i payed for, which was a used text book. its fine i guess

affordable textbook
The book came quickly and with no damage. It was used, yes, but barely at all. I would definitely buy from this seller again.

"Earth" A review
This is the second edition of this text I've had. I consider it the best basic(or basic+) geology text I've ever seen. It's complete, well organized and introduces the subject in a way which makes the newcomer want to delve further. Its readable format presents the information as more than just pages of cold facts. After more than 50 years as an amateur geologist, I still find myself referring to it.

earth: An Introduction Physical Geology (9th edition)
I never received the item. Paid for it, never got it and never got compensation for it.

Very good book for the course
Book worked out very well for the class, very well written, accurate on the facts, easy to understand. ... Read more

Product Description
Environmental Geology, ninth edition, presents the student with a broad overview of environmental geology. The text looks both at how the earth developed into its present condition and where matters seem to be moving for the future. It is hoped that this knowledge will provide the student with a useful foundation for discussing and evaluating specific environmental issues, as well as for developing ideas about how the problems should be solved. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Terrible textbook
If you are taking a geology course with this book, drop it because the subject is boring and the book just spits a bunch of geology jargon that no reasonable person would give a **** about. REALLY regret taking this course for science credits because not only do the lectures make me fall asleep, but just looking at one page of this book makes me wanna shoot myself... and this is coming from someone who has read countless numbers of textbooks

Really fast
I received this book much faster than I was expecting it.This seller is very quick and provided me with a great quality book.

it was what i was expecting.
what i was expecting.i was happy with price and the condition of the book.

good condition but out of date edition
product was in better than described condition but old edition ( not indicated in item description) and had to be returned; service was very good

not the right book
this company sent me the wrong book, but realized it before i received the wrong one, so they corrected it and gave me a discount.the whole experience was still not good, but they made it right. ... Read more

Product Description
Presents fifty hands-on activities to introduce the science of geology and explain the formation and history of the earth. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

fun things to do
The book has a wide variety.You're sure to find something that you and children can do together.The kids thought they looked to be fun when they glanced through.

Your little scientist will LOVE it
You must buy this book.It is packed with learning activities for children.

One example: The section on caves in this book has your kids creating stalactites (it's not *too* messy, Mom) and discovering how surface precipitation dissolves limestone to create caverns.I love hands-on books, and this one has plenty of science projects for your kids to do with (and this is important) MINIMAL PARENTAL HELP.

Your seven-year-olds and up will be on fire to learn more.Even littler brothers and sisters can get in on the excitement with rock collections and plate tectonics... this book can't be beat.

It does rock!
I will be homeschooling this year for the first time ever, and I chose this book as my first ever homeschool unit.Lest you quit reading, thinking I'm a newbie, let me just tell you that I do have a California teaching credential, and a Master's degree in Education, and I have taught in a school setting for a few years.But I was frustrated with the regimented, by-the-book education that a school setting is forced to provide due to, well, many factors, and my 2nd-grade son was already hating the workbook approach to learning.This book is the answer.It is very right-brained, tactile-learner focused, and it has a few activities for all subject areas including writing.Ironically, I will once again be teaching by the book, but it will be by this book, which is another thing entirely.I will be supplementing with other curriculum for Readin' Writin' Rithmetickin,' but not much because I feel the activities in this book, along with a geology-related field trip once each week, will foster in my kids a strong desire for learning--they'll WANT to learn, so I won't have to force them to.

Honestly, I didn't know much about geology despite taking "Earth Science" in 9th grade, where I carefully read, detested, and answered textbook questions, but just reading through the activities in this book I suddenly know much more about geology and have had to restrain myself from enthusiastically telling my kids everything I've learned before our school year starts.

Too bad Kaleidoscope Kids doesn't make any math or phonics books.

This book ROCKS!
I'm not sure why the previous reviewer thought there was nothing to this book, perhaps they did not actually USE the book themselves.I HAVE used this book for my children's homeschool study, and it is FANTASTIC!The concepts found in the book can be elaborated upon for older children, and used ~as is~ for younger kids, while the activities very well lend themselves to cementing basic geology into ANYbody's head, young or old.Plate tectonics with graham crackers, earth's crust with a composite homemade marshmellow- peppermint candy- chocolate-coated lolli-pop, sand-box crater creater... and the list goes on!My children have absolutely LOVED this book!And quite to the contrary of the previous reviewer's opinion, it has gotten them FAR MORE interested in geology then they ever knew they were!

Familiar Territory
I've looked over the book, and a friend who teaches science from ages 6-14 read it. It covers a lot of familiar territory found in other books. There were very few interesting or unusual new ideaspresented. It would take more than presented here to get a young student interested in geology. ... Read more

Product Description

As the human population increases, many decisions concerning our use of natural resources will determine our standard of living and the quality of our environment. This reader-friendly book helps readers develop an understanding of how geology interacts with major environmental problems facing society. Included with every text, the Hazard City CD-ROM gives instructors meaningful, easy-to-assign, and easy-to-grade assignments based on the idealized town of Hazard City.

Focuses on five fundamental concepts of environmental geology: Human Population Growth, Sustainability, Earth as a System, Hazardous Earth Processes, and Scientific Knowledge and Values. Features new chapters on Impacts of Extraterrestrial Objects and Waste as a Resource: Waste Management. Presents new or extensively revised discussion of human population growth, Alaska earthquake of 2002, emerging global water shortage, cleaning Boston Harbor, and much more. Revises many figures to more clearly illustrate the topics under discussion, based on user feedback. An informative reference for anyone interested in learning more about the environment.

Customer Reviews (9)

Horrible Book
I had to buy it for a class, but where do they come up with this stuff? This book is horrible. It continues the lie of overpopulation and a bunch of crap like that. Nothing but a brainwash.

Great Book Great Price
I was completely satisfied with my recent purchase. my textbook came sooner than expected and was in excellent condition. I will definitely order my textbooks online next semester, it saved me a ton of money!

Review of Environmental Geology, 4th edition
This reference is fine for the general reader who wishes to understand the basics of Environmental Geology, however, the information it contains can be found for a much less expensive cost at any online site or library.Much of the information covered is also a general topic of most high school geology courses, though it contains a good amount of information concerning human impact on natural processes.The writing style is concise, though not so dense as to defer all but the most determined reader.

Intro to Enviornmental Geology
The book was received quickly, in mostly good condition. A little dirty, but nothing serious.

Slow shipping
My daughter and I ordered the book on August the 17th to be used in her college Geology class. The book was received on Sept. 12. The book was in good condition, but never thought it would take almost a month receive. This was not a good purchasing experience on Amazon. I might think twice before ordering from this part of their website again. ... Read more

Product Description
Roadside Geology of Hawai`i details the evolution of this volcanic island chain, from the origin of a hot spot and the tumultuous creation of each island to ongoing eruptions and the gradual death and erosion of old volcanoes. Residents and tourists alike will soon become experts on lava tubes and lava flows, ancient beaches and coral reefs, ephemeral black sand beaches and the occasional tsunami. Includes a chapter each on six easily accessible and populated islands: Hawai`i , Maui, Lana`i, Moloka`i, O`ahu, and Kaua`i. Each chapter begins with a general discussion of the rocks of that island, then proceeds with a seres of road guides that provide the local details. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Travel Guides for Roadtrips
We have two homes about six hours apart in two different states. These books about the geology of the areas we are traveling through make the time fly! Get one for where ever you drive. I read...my husband drives.

Basic Geology
This is a good basic geology for people wanting to know about the rocks/road cuts they pass on the highways in various states, i.e., this one in Arizona.It was not as detailed as I would like but I have more than a layman's knowledge of geology so it is good for the beginner. Nice to have in my collection.

Stop And Smell the Rocks
In ROADSIDE GEOLOGY OF ARIZONA, Halka Chronic relates the story of Arizona's geology, which varies considerably from North to South.In the Basin & Range area, where I live, collisions between vast tectonic plates built mountains that rivaled the Sierras before they were worn down by millions of years of wind,water, and unrelenting sun.In the Phoenix area, I have hiked through the roots of those ancient mountains, metamorphic rocks that have been crushed, pushed and pulled into new forms and wild shapes. All my life I've wondered about them: what they are, how old they are, why they're here.Halka Chronic answers those questions.

I used to just gaze out the window and wonder about roadside geology when I was on a trip.Now I consult the Roadside Geology series.I can't help it!I'm a Geology nerd.Make that HAPPY geology nerd.This book is highly recommended.

Great fun for long drives across AZ
For the aware and the curious.It helps while away those long hours crossing Arizona.

Great books!
I normally do not review products. All the "Roadside Geology" series has been so helpful and fun, I had to respond.I own Nine,so far. I get one before every vacation to know the geology of the country I'm traveling through.
The books are laid out intuitively with a complete over view and as much detail as you want to explore.
Highly recommend! ... Read more

Product Description
Exploring Geology by Reynolds/Johnson/Kelly/Morin/Carter is an innovative textbook intended for an introductory college geology course, such as Physical Geology. This ground-breaking, visually spectacular book was designed from cognitive and educational research on how students think, learn, and study.

Nearly all information in the book is built around 2,600 photographs and stunning illustrations, rather than being in long blocks of text that are not articulated with figures. These annotated illustrations help students visualize geologic processes and concepts, and are suited to the way most instructors already teach. To alleviate cognitive load and help students focus on one important geologic process or concept at a time, the book consists entirely of two-page spreads organized into 19 chapters. Each two-page spread is a self-contained block of information about a specific topic, emphasizing geologic concepts, processes, features, and approaches. These spreads help students learn and organize geologic knowledge in a new and exciting way.

Inquiry is embedded throughout the book, modeling how geologists investigate problems. The title of each two-page spread and topic heading is a question intended to get readers to think about the topic and become interested and motivated to explore the two-page spread for answers. Each chapter is a learning cycle, which begins with a visually engaging two-page spread about a compelling geologic issue. Each chapter ends with an Investigation that challenges students with a problem associated with a virtual place. The world-class media, spectacular presentations, and assessments are all tightly articulated with the textbook. This book is designed to encourage students to observe, interpret, think critically, and engage in authentic inquiry, and is highly acclaimed by reviewers, instructors, and students. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Good book, poor shipment
Received the book fast but came in a box that was too smalls for the book. Seems like the book was rolled up for it to fit in this specific box, to this date book is bent. Because of book being rolled up, it got somewhat damaged during the shipping. I do not understand why the book wasn't shipped in a box big enough for it. Not so happy.

Physical Geography
Physical Geography 1114 at OU is what I purchased the book for.
Just needed some extra credit hours to graduate; never took a geography class in college,
so this is a great book for a beginner with a lot of detailed pictures and is easy to follow.
The book was in perfect condition too.

I now hate GEO
I took this as a college course and it is extremely hard to read. It takes me basically an entire day to read one chapter. At the end of the chapters are exercises where you take a mini test on the material - then there are no answers provided so you actually have no idea if you did it right.

The beginning of the book goes over everything very quickly and is extremely difficult, the second half of the book is much easier. Every page has a "things you should know" before you move on. The things you should know include every fine detail on the page. I was forced to spend 25+ hours per week on this book to get an A in my class and it has been torture.

For people who say this book is easy: you are crazy. Try learning all the details on 1 page it will take you an hour if you really take the time to study the page. Sure if you just cover the topics generally geo can be easy but some teachers want you to know all the details such as the composition of every type of rock and mineral.

This books is not just geo either. You will also have to learn about space, about atomic structure and how to construct atoms, etc. You have to be able to memorize hundreds of minute details. My book has probably about 100 sticky notes inside where I constantly go back to review material. If you miss a detail in the beginning of the chapter you will probably be lost the rest of the chapter. The # of vocabulary words you will have to learn is daunting and later chapters will not simplify the writing so you must know the vocab.

A huge problem with this book: It is soft cover and weighs like 10 pounds. It is so floppy you can't hold it and read it, you must set it on a table. Really annoying.

If you know everything in this book you would probably have to be a real Geologist. I felt like I learned five classes worth of geo in 1 darn intro class. I now hate geo.

Geology
Excellent book packed full of useful information. I'm glad I purchased it for my class!

This book sucks as a textbook
As a geology student this book does not help at all.It has a horrible format,the text is virtually almost non-existent,everything is out of order and it should really be called just an overpriced picture book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (28)

Excellent Introductory Text
This is a really great book and introductory text to the petroleum industry.The images in the book were great - something that personally I really enjoyed.Covers a broad range of subjects with that 'just enough' treatment of most with information presented.Allows the reader to get across alot of subjects quickly - which is just what you want an introductory text to do !

A must read for non-technical professionals
Great book; it does and excellent job at explaining a very complicated industry like Oil & Gas exploration. I work as a financial analyst in a junior E&P and I continuously look at the book for information. A must read for all those new to the industry and everyone interested in O&G.

Excellent Primer of the Industry
This book gives a great overview for the activities involved in oil and gas exploration and the process of drilling and producing wells.

Oil & Gas Made Easy
Absolutely superior book.Extremely well written with numerous pictures and illustrative diagrams & tables.Provides a thorough background of the upstream petroleum production process.

Great starter book
This is a great starter book for anyone wanting to learn more about Oil & Gas from what and where it is to how it gets to its final destinations. If you're already in the industry I can guarantee that you'll still learn things as it is very comprehensive to the industry as a whole. ... Read more

Product Description
This illustrated field guide provides information on geology. It includes details about the earth's origin, the shapingof the continents, the forming of rocks, erosion, earth's geological history, and the impact of the oceans and rivers on the earth. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

A Craving For Rocks
I came back from a trip to Utah hungry to know more about geology, and this is the first book I bought.It satisfied my curiosity admirably.Once I had read it, I felt that I had a better grasp of the subject.Now that I'm pursuing geology at the college level, I'm doing very well, thanks to the framework this book provided for me.I will continue to refer to it during these first two years of study -- and probably beyond, because it's full of excellent illustrations for each concept.I'm glad I've got it on my shelf.

Earth's History All Around Us: A Story Written in Rock
This is a passport to unexpected discoveries at all scales and becomes a guide to seeing the world's longest running rocky picture show. Clearly written and with many times more illustrations than its 300 pages, it offers an accessible, inital overview of what forces created and distributed the crust of the Earth today and the incredibly powerful forces that continue to change it. Although it is recommended for grade 8 students and older, it is also for adults. This can be your starter book at any age to travel through time to distant planets--our Earth--distant in time, not outer space.

The physical world has not always looked as it is today, or for very long, for that matter when these rocks of ages have been measured in millions and billions of years. Much of North America was most recently altered on a colossal scale by the last ice age that retreated a mere 12,000 years ago or so. There have been many versions of the planetary crust we know as our home and there will be many more variations long after us. Find out why that is so through descriptions and explanations encompassing the endless cycle in the dance of Shiva, creating and destroying the face of the Earth. Learn to see evidence of deep time, geological time in your own surroundings. New Yorkers will discover what created the impressive Palisades along the Hudson river. Arizonans will see the remains of ancient volcanoes in addition to the famous forces of weathering that carved the Grand Canyon. Unexpected wonders are everywhere to read about and with this book's assistance, actually experience in nature. A general understanding is mandatory. By example, if we could drain Lake Michigan, Chicagoans could see an enormous geological surprise deeper, possibly in wonder, than even the Grand Canyon because it lies unexplored and its potential discoveries dormant without our cognizance. This book can describe for the mind what cannot be seen today for a variety of reasons. You will comprehend them nonetheless.

In fact, the distribution of land and water we recognize from childhood memories of our classroom globes has only existed in that specific, temporary manifestation for such a brief period in the history of the planet that it is considered by geologists as merely a blink in time. Mountain ranges and entire oceans have come and gone. Continents coalesced to form a single mega continent only to be eventually pulled apart into large fragments sliding under each other, violently colliding into each other with irresistible force that alters everythimg in their path without plan or purpose.

Ultimately everything is recycled by geological forces that create what the book illustrates, and that are produced as a consequence of astonishing extremes and combinations: of heat, cold, pressure, weight, vulcanism and more subtly by wind and water over the most potent power of all, time. This book is inexpensive and quite adequate in offering an overall picture as well as a brief trip through time regarding geological forces and their continuing consequences. It is not a college textbook nor does it try to be. You will need additional books to identify the huge variety of rocks you will find in the field--literally and figuratively. It also uses drawings instead of color photographs so many people might prefer other books. tNonetheless, this book describes and illustrates geological and chemical forces in action in their endless variations. But without good color photographs it cannot show rocks at all scales as they could appear in nature, whether from the small pebbles of the regolith to its most massive formation of any single rock, Iluru, once known as Ayer's Rock in central Australia, to the enormous expanses of consolidated rock we know as bedrock. This book's illustrations are very good but admittedly, it could be illustrated better by professional, color photography. Some readers will demand color to be satisfied. Fair enough. However, color reproductions or more complex details associated with textbooks will cause any book's price to rise exponentially, so be prepared to pay a lot more.

Other afforable accessory books are highly recommended for your state or possibly natural wonders during your next vacation. You might also want to consider another entry level experience of field geology that you can easily experience traveling by car largely through"digs" illustrating firsthand, geological formations which are often conveniently provided by thousands of road cuts all over the US. These books can be inexpensive interpreters to assist you in becoming more aware of nature's most fundamental, visible crystal structures. One optional series to look at is the Roadside Geology series like, Roadside Geology of Northern and Central California or Roadside Geology of Connecticut and Rhode Island (Roadside Geology Series) Another good series, includes Geology Underfoot in Northern Arizona, Underfoot: A Geologic Guide to the Appalachian Trail for hikers and Geology Underfoot in Southern Utah.

This is just the beginning of your adventures. You might also enjoy a visit to your local Museum of Natural History to complement your new studies in the field.

An excellent science or study text for young adults, especially recommended for high school library collections.
Written by award-winning science author David Lambert and The Diagram Group, The Field Guide to Geology is an overview of the geologic history of the Earth. Accessible to middle and high school students as well as lay readers alike, The Field Guide to Geology is now updated with two new chapters: one on new technologies used to measure behavior of the Earth's complex systems in real time, and one on notable scientists whose research advanced the field of geology. The Field Guide to Geology includes more than 750 two-color maps, charts, and illustrations, and covers everything from plate tectonics to the distinctions between types of rock and stone to how rivers and seas shape the land to means used to date rocks and much more. An excellent science or study text for young adults, especially recommended for high school library collections.

And how is this a field guide?
The words "field guide" imply a book that can be carried in the field to identify features (e.g. "Audubon Field Guide" series).A looser interpretation would be a manual that teaches people to interpret features in the field (e.g. Robert Compton's classic "Geology in the Field"). David Lambert's "The Field Guide to Geology" is neither.It is a simple introduction to geology accompanied by many drawings and diagrams.The book is useful for high school earth science students and younger, but any basic college-level physical geology text provides a more thorough introduction to geology -- with more sophisticated graphics, too.

So, if you want a snapshot of important concepts in basic physical geology, take a lookat "Field Guide to Geology" or search in Wikipedia under "Geology."If you want a detailed introduction, take a look at an introductory-level college physical or historical (for fossils) geology textbook.If you want a true field guide, there are many good series such as the Audubon or Peterson series.

Excellent beginner book.
As a student in engineering geology, I found this book to be
a very good reference but with no in-depth reading. For the novice, I would recommend
this to see if you're interested in the field of geology; but for an intermediate
or advanced geology enthusiast, I would recommend a more scientific book.

There are no photographs but rather drawings of the various
components of geology. The artist did well, but nothing can amount to the incredible
display of mass wasting, or the delicate detail of Micas ... Read more

Product Description
The "Land of Enchantment," New Mexico is as varied in its scenery as its nickname suggests. With desert lowlands in the south and high, hoary peaks in the north, with rugged volcanic uplands and colorful plateaus, with high plains along its eastern border, and with a great rift valley that quite literally slashes the state in two, New Mexico's landscape tells a dramatic story that spans more than one billion years. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Roadside Geology
This book is a necessity when you are traveling the highways and you want to know why . . . why is there lava here, why are the hillsides slanted, why the different colors/levels/etc. along the roadway.Beats taking geology classes, instant knowledge - very helpful, especially when you are new to New Mexico.

New Mexico Geology
Far too technical for the average tourist.Written for geology students, not old geezers slowly travelling through.

Roadside Geology
It is amazingly accurate and if you are interested in Geology you will
learn solid, well written information about this Geology.

Lots of info............
These Roadside books are always very good and this one is no exception.

The best of tourist geology
I have persused through several Roadside Geology book, so I was pretty sure of what I was ordering.This book is wonderful to read before road trips, while on road trips and after road trips.My family and I have a much better understanding of and appreciation for what we are seeing on our trips.I highly recommend this series for anyone the least bit interested in geology. ... Read more

Product Description
Until about 200 million years ago, the western margin of North America lay to the east, along the present Idaho border, and a broad coastal plain spread westward into Oregon. The rest of the state was ocean floor. Then the continent began moving slowly westward away from Europe and the floor of the Pacific Ocean began sliding beneath the western edge. That is what created Oregon, and this book tells how it happened. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

You-are- there geology

The Alt/Hyndman Roadside Geology series lets you think about geology at your own pace, with the subject matter right in front of you. I love them. They give you the broad outlines of the Big Picture--how what you're looking at got that way--and relate it to what you actually see, touch, and feel right there. It makes geology real and concrete in a way textbooks and classrooms simply cannot. I have several for the western states, but the Oregon volume I know best and use most because I live here, and I find that every time I take it with me and let it inform my experience I get something new out of it and my understanding is enriched. A lot of information lies within the breezy text and diagrammatic maps.

That said, the routes covered are typically only on the main roads; to make sense of what you might see on secondary/tertiary roads, you'll have to do a bit of extrapolation, interpretation, and--if you're like me--just plain guessing. And the maps mostly diagram the geology: they are not a substitute for a good touring atlas.

A word of warning: doing geology from the driver's seat is dangerous. (But you know this, right?) Despite the everpresent temptation, pull over and park before taking a gander at that fascinating exposure!

great book, great seller!
The book is exactly what I expected it to be! I run a paranormal research team in Portland Oregon/Vancouver Washington, and we needed to know what mineral deposits and what not were located in specific areas of the state. This book really accomplished that for me! The seller was quick and the book, although used, was in practically brand new condition. Great job!!!!

Great travel guide!
If you've ever driven along a highway or road and noticed the different layers of rocks and soils on the "cut-bank", then this book is for you!Just pick a main road in OR between two points, such as HWY 101 from Tillamook to Florence, and the geology along the way is spelled out for you.It gives a basic geology of the entire state as well, with a few unusaul graphics that work well with the author's explanations.

Don't visit Oregon without reading this book
Mention "Oregon" and the average traveler thinks of Crater Lake, the Columbia Gorge, and miles of trackless evergreen forest.The more seasoned may be familiar with Newberry Volcano, Mount Hood, and the Oregon Dunes along the Pacific coast.But there is much more, and this is the book to show it to you, give you good directions, and explain why the secenery looks the way it does.Once you read this book, even if you never get there, you will know why Oregon is the Unknown Gem of the West.

The writing is clear and concise, and the routes along which the reader is taken are well chosen.Photography is black and white, and this detracts a bit, but is easily overcome.

Oregon has more geologically recent sites of volcanism than any other state in the Lower 49, and you are directed past many of these. So for anyone into volcanoes, as I am, the book is a must.The various volcanic processes and minerals that formed thse features are excellently explained.

The book also addresses Oregon's many spectacular canyons, as well as its matchless seacoast, its waterfalls, and its sand dunes.Virtually unknown facts, such as the largest U.S. meteorite being known, but not found, near Port Orford, are brought to light, along with a thousand other facts of the same genre.

I would be remiss if I did not praise authors Hyndman and Alt, along with Mountain Press, for this fine book, and others of its kind, covering other states, mostly in the West.All are highly recommended, and will make any tourist's time more well spent and enjoyable.

Nice, Useful Read
A nice addition to anyone's geology library. Alt and Hyndman cover every corner of Oregon, and explain the major players in the shape of the landscape clearly and succinctly, as well as local aspects of geology.There's the added bonus of being able to jump in the car and find whatthey've written about as they provide regional maps, indicating formations,special interest items and more. ... Read more

Product Description
Lavishly illustrated in color, this textbook takes an applied approach to introduce undergraduate students to the basic principles of structural geology. The book provides unique links to industry applications in the upper crust, including petroleum and groundwater geology, which highlight the importance of structural geology in exploration and exploitation of petroleum and water resources. Topics range from faults and fractures forming near the surface to shear zones and folds of the deep crust. Students are engaged through examples and parallels drawn from practical everyday situations, enabling them to connect theory with practice. Containing numerous end-of-chapter problems, e-learning modules, and with stunning field photos and illustrations, this book provides the ultimate learning experience for all students of structural geology. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

a fresh look at modern Structural Geology
I have started using this new textbook for my classes and find it concise, clear and very enjoyable to read. The illustrations and photos are also of great teaching value. ... Read more

Product Description
Montana's geologic history includes a long succession of disturbances that changed the rocks, then changed many of them again. Unraveling these events reveals a geologically quiet continent that got scrambled in a long and grinding collision with the Pacific crustal plate. Through detailed geologic maps and lively text, Roadside Geology of Montana deciphers the complicated rock record and uncovers each layer of Big Sky Country. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Rather worthless on the road since it has no milepost info
I am a professional geographer who has purchased and used numerous roadside guides in my field explorations. This book is a good overview of Montana's geologic story, but the maps are lacking detail and it lacks a milepost listing of features. It is suitable for reading in preparation for a trip, but without milepost listings, it is not a good field tool. In addition to this book, I also have purchased the South Dakota book in this series and it too was a disappointment.

Best of it's type.
Montana can be a rough rugged place. This book shows it in a much more user friendly light
Have purchased a number of books in this series.
All were very useful.
Whether a student of geology [i am] or just someone who enjoys an enhancement to a trip.
This is a wonderful travel companion.

A great guide to have with you on your travels
This is a great book in the Roadside Geology series.If you are even remotely curious about the story of why the road cut you just drove though looks the way it does and what all those different colored rocks are, then this is your book!You do not need to have a geology degree to understand what Mr. Alt writes about----the book is written for the layman.But that does not mean that it is light reading.This is one of those books you keep getting more and more out of.

To truly understand the book (and the geology of Montana) you need to have this book with you as you are driving.Do what I did:when you see something interesting, pull over (safely, of course) and read what Mr. Alt has to say about what you are looking at.By using this method, you will really begin to understand the geology of Montana.Also, if you are a rock hound, this is a great book to use to help you round out your rock collection.By using this book, you can be certain of what you are collecting and how old it is.

The illustrations are also very helpful, as are the maps.My only quibble is that there are not enough illustrations (this is why it is not five stars).A nice set of color photos of rocks would be a great addition!Anyway, if you are looking for a book to help you understand what your are looking at during that long (and it is long) drive through Montana, here you go!Just make sure you don't miss the Beartooth Highway! Enjoy!

Teach yourselfaboutMontana with this handy guide
In this guide, you will learn why underground coal fires have played a prominent role in shaping the surface topography and nature of the overlying strata in parts of eastern Montana. You will learn why widespread dryland farming in the early 20th century often caused devistating salinization of the soil. Filled with numerous photos and illustrations, the past and present of Montana's geology is at your fingertips. From the sedimentation, coal formation and general uplift of eastern and central Montana,
to the dominant influence of tectonic and igneous events in the western region, to the recent effects of glaciation in the northern regions, Alt and Hyndman provide you with a detailed description and explanation.

Exciting Geology
The saga of Glacial Lake Missoula was so gripping I had to buy Roadside Geology of Washington to see how it came out!Alt and Hyndman are the best authors I've found in this series.While you're at it, don't miss Alt's "Glacial Lake Missoula and Its Humongous Floods." ... Read more

Product Description
Reading the rocks like pages in a book, Geology Underfoot in Southern California offers an inside view of the southland's active and sometimes enigmatic landscape. Twenty vignettes each weave a geologic story of a particular scene, relationship, or feature. Some spotlight well-known landmarks, while others describe subtle relationships among the earth's awesome forces. Together these snapshots introduce readers to southern California's rich, dynamic, and even flamboyant geology. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Who Knew California Came From Central America?
Very readable book, despite the complexity of the topic. Not as simplified as McPhee, but fascinating enough I got through the science. My particular interest was where the little slip of California that is Pacific Plate came from--Central America? Some ocean island? I found lots of hints in this book, though as with everything that is pre-historic, it's impossible to say for sure. Overall, if you read this book because of an interest in geology, you'll enjoy the ride.

A good beginning guide for a new geologist
A nice guide if you plan on going out into the field and exploring the world around you. It inspired me to get out of the car and do more walking so I could see geology at work for myself. If you were just looking for a book to explain geological places and processes in California it probably would not suffice.I would compare it to a travel book about the hidden places in a certain area rather than a general guide.

Excellent introduction to the geology of the area
This well-prepared and engaging work provides an excellent way for the layman to appreciate points of geological interest in the area. The style is approachable and seeks to simplify, without over-simplifying, and to solicit the reader to use his or her imagination. It is well researched and practical, giving no problems finding places, parking and so on. This book is recommended.

Like Rocks? Wonder about the Landscape?
This book has triggered day-trips & camping expeditions in our family. I've had the pleasure of leading my children and their friends to moments of discovery and learning & shared wonder and beauty with my father--all based on this book.

It starts with a six page description of SoCal's geological history, then jumps into 20 sites of interest. A glossary, "Sources of Supplementary Information," and an index round out the book.

Each site receives its own chapter, replete with photographs, maps, geological diagrams, and even driving directions, as needed. I'm not a serious geologist, but landscape features fascinate me. The explanations that the authors give work well for me: I can understand them well enough to explain them to children.

If you're interested in how the land has been shaped, if you're willing to turn off the tube & make contact with the natural world, then this book is for you. One of the best "field guides" to geology I own. One of my favorites, too. (The companion volume, GEOLOGY UNDERFOOT IN DEATH VALLEY AND OWENS VALLEY, is also an excellent book).

(If you'd like to dialog more about this book or review, click on the "about me" link above & drop me an email. Thanks!)

Excellent, but different from "Roadside" series
If you've used the "Roadside Geology of..." series, this is a bit different.It's more of a "sites of interest" type of book.It lists 20 sites in the southern California area, from Mammoth Lakes outto the coast, and south to Needles and San Diego.The sites arewonderfully explained, with aerial photos, illustrations, and maps.Thisis definitely aimed at the casual tourist, with very little knowledge ofgeology necessary.As a professional Geologist, it's one of those booksI'd give a non-Geologist friend. ... Read more