Product Description
For majors and non-majors in undergraduate lab courses for Introductory Geology and Physical Geology.The best-selling lab manual for undergraduate lab courses in Physical Geology or Introductory Geology, for majors and non-majors. With contributions from more than 120 highly regarded geologists and geoscience educators, and an exceptional illustration program by Dennis Tasa, this user-friendly laboratory manual focuses students on the basic principles of geology and their applications to everyday life in terms of natural resources, natural hazards, and human risks. This edition pushes the frontiers of geologic education even further with the inclusion of four new computer-based labs. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (24)

Exactly As Advertised, Very Fair Price
This product was delivered in a timely manner. It arrived just as it was described in the description. The price was much better than any other I had discovered.

Cheap Price, Great Service
This product was an amazing price and good quality.So far, I haven't noticed any missing pages, and it even included the cardboard cutouts in the back.Great service. Thanks!!

Falsely advertised as being New.
Falsely advertised as being new. This manual is full of markings and in poor condition. The manual was advertised as "new" though it is clearly used. I could have purchased 5 truly used manuals for the cost of this purchase.

Geology Lab Manual
Great book, in brand new condition and very usefull for the class I attended. I will keep this book for future reference.

laboratory Manual in Physical Geology
good color images, good charts, 'geo-tools' including percent estimate, grain size and cleavage goniometer!Pages for notes included, and graph and log paper in back.Also back cover oversized so you can use it as a bookmark.I won't tear any lab pages out, this book is too good as a reference. ... Read more

Product Description
From the ancient sedimentary formations in the north through the overthrust belt in the southeast, Idaho's rocks are as interesting as rocks come. The authors know these rocks well through their years of research in Idaho, which led to their theory explaining the flood basalts of the Columbia Plateau and the hotspot track of the Snake River Plain as the results of a giant meteorite impact that happened about 17 million years ago. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

YES, buy this book
Have purchased a number of books in this series. All were very useful.
Whethera student of geology [i am] or just someone who enjoys an enhancement to a trip. This is a wonderful companion.
Idaho is a extremely diversearea geologically. And a great choice to visit if you have an interestin such.

Great book, great series
The entire Roadside Geology series is excellent; this book is no exception. I particularly enjoy their maps, which do a good job showing the different geological formations you can expect to pass through as you drive on a particular highway. The authors explain geological processes with extreme patience, as though they are teachers as much as writers.

I have one general quibble with the series, and that is the seeming disdain the authors show for old-time prospectors. It shouldn't be hard to understand why hordes of miners flocked from one gold rush to the next; getting their first could mean striking a fortune. Idaho's mountains are full of ghost towns and deserted mining camps that came and went, and I find those old locations--especially the tailings piles--to be a great source of rocks and minerals. The men who prospected hidden valleys and remote locations were smart and able, and save for those few who trespassed on reservations and misbehaved, my hat is off to them.The authors don't seem to share my feelings, but that doesn't take away from these great books. Anyone intent on exploring Idaho would do well to add this book to their research stack.

Quite an Education
As always, David Alt and Donald Hyndman team up to provide a very readable expert presentation of the current and past geology of a state with a very dynamic geological past and present. As a non-geologist who doesn't plan to visit Idaho anytime soon, I still learned plenty about how geology works from the discussion, drawings and photos of many specific sites and regions. 100 million years ago, Idaho was part of the western shore of North America. You'll learn where to find evidence of the collision that ended this era. You will learn about the many Ice Age lake megafloods that left their marks on the major river valleys. Nearly all the surface of the state is dominated by a diverse collection of igneous rocks from at least 5 majorevents over the past 100 million years, one or two of which are still active. You will have to read the book to discover all the other interesting details.

Make A Road Trip Worthwhile
The state of Idaho is full of interesting geology; from the Craters of the Moon, to the Snake River Canyon, to the lakes of the Idaho Panhandle.Every tourist and sightseer should have a copy of this informative book to guide them along an adventure that includes geological orientation interwoven with on-site observation.A "must-read" for the traveler! ... Read more

Product Description
This interesting book uses plate tectonics as its central theme; it acquaints readers with California geology. Basic principles in the beginning of the book and tables of highlights for each province enable the reader to understand the whole picture of catastrophic national disasters, California history, mining methods, and societal impacts; it brings the lessons of geology closer to the everyday context of California life.After a comprehensive overview of the basic principles of geology, this book then focuses on the geological highlights of California (young volcanoes, deserts, the Mojave Desert, the Sierra Nevada, the Klamath Mountains, water, the Great Valley, the coast Ranges, earthquakes, faults, and seismic safety, the transverse ranges, and the peninsular ranges). The inside back and front covers of the book contain a wealth of readily available information, with comprehensive geologic, fault, relief, and mountain range maps.A handy desk reference for geologists, this book is also a source of information for anyone interested in the evolution of California's terrain. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Worth it
This book gets me through the California Supplemental Examination for my PG. It is easy to read and understand (if you are a geologist), without making the book less the substance.

I like how Harden pictures one geologic event. The examples of places names are a familiar one, thus (if you live long enough in California) you can relate to them.

It is definitely one to keep.

Excellent Condition
The book arrived fast and in great condition. Seller was very nice and notified me when item would be shipped. I would order from this seller again.

Excellent Primer
As an amateur geologist, living part-time in CA, this book is an excellent primer that goes over the basics of that great state.

The ONLY up-to-date textbook on California geology
Deborah Hardin's textbook on California geology is superior to all previous texts inasmuch as she is the first to utilize the theory of plate tectonics to provide a unified framework for her overall exposition. Instead of being bombarded with an encyclopedic but chaotic assemblage ofrock types and unconnected microprocesses, the reader is treated to aconsistent and comprehensive picture of how California came to be thathangs together remarkably well.

Harden utilized the recent research ofcountless other geologists to put together this book, and her hard work haspaid off.She includes several chapters that provide a conceptual overviewof geologic principles, then goes on in successive sections to describe howvarious forces and processes related ultimately to plate tectonics havebeen responsible for the evolution of various distinctive landforms andgeomorphic regions of California.She also includes a final chapter thatis a stand-alone summary version of the "geological history ofCalifornia."Throughout the book, she makes clear again and again howa clear understanding of the various ways that tectonic plates can interactis absolutely fundamental to understanding how California has come intoexistence over the past several hundred million years.It's a fascinatingstory, and Harden's text will help anyone willing to read carefully andstudy a bit to learn the basics of California geology.

As an added bonus,Harden has included several sections that are linked to present-dayenvironmental hazards, most notably those related to the constant threat ofearthquakes in the Golden State.Such information is, of course linkeddirectly to the geology of the state that she has described and explainedso well.

The illustrations and diagrams re not terribly elaborate, butthey are helpful and reasonably plentiful.Also included are somesmall-sized versions of the standard California geology and fault maps.

The main drawback to this publication is its astronomical price.Thisis hardly Harden's fault, however, as high prices seem to be theunfortunate standard for college textbooks these days. ... Read more

Product Description
HISTORICAL GEOLOGY: EVOLUTION OF EARTH AND LIFE THROUGH TIME teaches students basic geologic principles as well as how scientists apply these principles to unravel Earth’s history. Wicander and Monroe present a balanced overview of both the geological and biological history of Earth as a continuum of inter-related events. These events reflect the underlying principles and processes that have shaped our planet. The authors also explain the historical development of these basic principles and processes, and their importance in deciphering Earth history. Three major themes—time, evolutionary theory, and plate tectonics—are woven together throughout the book. These themes help students link essential material to enhance their understanding of historical geology. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Historical Geology
Historical Geology: Evolution of Earth and Life Through Time (with CD-ROM and InfoTrac) I bought this Historical Geology book..It is good but not perfect...It has lots of good pictures..and diagrams..It is a good introduction to Historical Geology...It is a good introduction ..It has lots of pictures and diagrams....It is not perfect..If you want a very detailed and comprhensive history of the Earth this is not it...A very detailed and complete history of the Earth would be great..This is an introduction....It is not complete or comprehensive..It has lots of pictures and diagrams....It is good...The price is reasonable....I am glad I bought it...It is not comprehensive and complete..But it is good..

A textbook.
If you need this for a class, then it is your best friend. I personally think that the book is interesting to read by itself, but I'm a nerd.

strong explanation of evolution
The authors give a strong explanation of biological evolution, from its earliest unicellular origins to the present. Much fossil and DNA evidence is summarised. Including recent findings in fossil digs from the 90s.

They point out that many so-called missing links are not. For relations between genera, families, orders and classes, the intermediate forms ("links")are often present in the fossil record. Amongst the cases cited are the origins of whales and sea cows.

More generally, the book has numerous instances where transitions found in fossils are explained in terms of limbs or bones developing, or suchlike, so that you can clearly see how one fossil is the evolutionary ancestor of another later fossil. As in the early fishes. Where those who developed jaws with bones were then more able to hunt other fishes; a strong evolutionary advantage. While the move onto land is shown in fossils that had fins with muscles. This allowed for propulsion above water, where the original advantage was to let the fish move around under water, in mud or vegetation.

Geology is also emphasised. Often giving rise to various ore and petroleum bodies found today. Plus plate tectonics is shown to account for the continental drifts and the breakup of Gondwanaland. ... Read more

Product Description
The small chunk of North America enclosed within the state boundaries of Connecticut and Rhode Island includes parts of at least six former continents, microcontinents, and volcanic island chains, each with its own geologic history. Roadside Geology of Connecticut and Rhode Island introduces readers to the sequence of mountain-building collisions that welded the pieces of land together and to the subsequent upwelling of magma that nearly broke them apart again. Twenty road
guides, complete with maps, photographs, and diagrams, locate
and interpret the rocks and landforms visible from the state s
highways and at nearby parks and historic sites. Readers will discover stretched pebbles at Purgatory Chasm, folded marble
at Kent Falls State Park, Eubrontes footprints at Dinosaur State Park, and glacial moraines protruding from the waters of Long Island and Block Island Sounds. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Wonderful book
I learned so much from this book.You can learn a lot from this book about Connecticut and what is in this state.A great learning tool for yourself and your family.

Yes, small states can have interesting geology too
If you were impressed by "Roadside Geology of Massachusetts",expect the same detailed, yet quite readable, treatment by the same author. Dr. Skehan is lucky to have 3 of the smallest states as his assignment, enabling him to cover nearly every significant aspect of the present and past geology of these states in a space equal to that devoted to many much larger states in others of this book series. Just because these states lack tall mountains, present volcanic activity, or great mineral wealth, by no means assume that their geology is boring and simple to grasp. As with most other northern Atlantic seaboard states, their terrain includes bits of a number of exotic land masses from the distant past welded on during tectonic plate collisions, as well as evidence of past rift valleys associated with the breakup of Pangea, as detailed in this book. This is the first book among the the many in this series that I possess that includes color photographs(quite a few), perhaps an indication of a new trend?

Chapters focus on different sites, geologic experiences, and local history
Any library strong in U.S. regional geology and any collection with a focus on the East Coast will welcome Roadside Geology of Connecticut and Rhode Island, an addition to the expanding U.S. series. Connecticut and Rhode Island's geology is covered in chapters that focus on different sites, geologic experiences, and local history. With maps, charts, and lots of easily-absorbed detail, this lends to a destination-bound traveler's take-along tote as well as to public lending libraries.
... Read more

Product Description
Physical Geology: Earth Revealed is appropriate for introductory physical geology classes. This text, which includes the same information as the market-leading Physical Geology - 12th edition, by Plummer/Carlson, is for the instructor who prefers to cover plate tectonics early in the course.

The eighth edition has been updated to include the most current information from the various sub-disciplines that comprise physical geology. The book’s purpose is to clearly present geologic processes so that students can understand the logic of scientific methods. This text features an outstanding art program and a proven, accessible writing style.

This text continues to be used as the official textbook to accompany the Annenberg CPB distributed telecourse for physical geology. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Perfect Purchase
Being a textbook, this was not exactly a "wanted" purchase, so I decided on a used book. This was listed as a used book, but it is abosulutely perfect. It looks brand new. I am very happy with the book I received and the amount I paid. Thank you very much for the opportunity to save money and receive a great looking product.

Like new item.
I recieved a like new text book for a great price and recived it good time. Thanx!

beautiful writing, pictures and explanations
This text is very thorough and the explanations are given in great detail. I found the material to be very interesting and presented in an easy-to-understand format.

Physical Geology:Earth revealed
I is an excellent textbook; however, I was under the understanding that I would be getting the 7th edition , not the 4th edition.I kept it anyway, since 95% of the information is still current.It also came with 2 excellent CD ROM's.

Very Good Textbook
Physical Geology: Earth Revealed, by Diane Carlson, is a very informative and complete geology textbook.The book is full of excellent photos that really bring the subject matter to the forefront.One of the books true hi-lights are the various "Reading Boxes" included with each chapter.These reading boxes take more in-depth looks at the various topics in the books.The textbook is well-written and somewhat enjoyable.It is organized in a very easy to follow manner.
... Read more

Product Description
Physical Geology, 13th edition, is the latest refinement of a classic introductory text that has helped countless students learn basic physical geology concepts for over 25 years. Students taking introductory physical geology to fulfill a science elective, as well as those contemplating a career in geology, will appreciate the accessible writing style and depth of coverage in Physical Geology. Hundreds of carefully rendered illustrations and accompanying photographs correlate perfectly with the chapter descriptions to help readers quickly grasp new geologic concepts. Numerous chapter learning tools and a website further assist students in their study of physical geology. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

GEO-151
The book has been very helpful for class. But I would like an online version that would have some quizzes that have been offered with some of the other books that I have purchased.

Overall It is well worth its cost. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review
As JohnMcPhee noted in InSuspect Terrain, one of the unintended consequences of largehighways is how much they help geologists -- and casual travellers --learn about geology by exposing geological strata in roadcuts. There are no better books for roadside geologizing than the RoadsideGeology series. When I had a car, a copy of the appropriate title fromthe series was always on the dashboard, ready for consultationwhenever an interesting formation or landscape appeared around thenext bend.

This is just one of a large series of Roadside Geology books. Take yourpick(s), andlearn about the Earth on your next trip!

[ Alaska | Arizona| California (Northern) |California (Southern) | Colorado | Hawaii| Idaho | Louisiana | Montana | New Mexico | New York | Oregon| Pennsylvania | South Dakota| Texas | Yellowstone Country | Utah | Vermont and New Hampshire | Virginia | Washington | Wyoming]

Related Books:

[ Great Smoky Mountains NationalPark| Roadside Kansas: A Traveler'sGuide to Its Geology and Landmarks| U S Interstate 80 BetweenSalt Lake City and San Francisco ] ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Helps all those miles pass
There is a lot of "nothing" in WY. Or so it seems till you have this book. Don't think i would live there but it has a lot of interest [fossils especially]
I've purchased a number of books in this series. All were very enjoyable.
Whether a student of geology or just someone who enjoys an enhancement to a trip. This is a wonderful companion.

Reccommended for bored drivers!
This series is great for spicing up your road trip, or rockhounding. It's a reference work, so don't expect it to be literature. It is repetitive, but it needs to be, so that you can look up the geology of wherever you are at the time.

Another Travel Perspective
A must have book along with the Yellowstone book from the same series. This book made our trip through Wyoming more enjoyable. Our lucky find was at the National Park Service store at Devil's Tower where we found this title along with the Yellowstone version. On our ride into Devil's Tower we were intrigued by the unique rock formations and learned about them as we left for Sheridan reading the Roadside Wyoming book we just purchased. A must travel book for all, kids and adults, which turns a trip into educational adventure. When you read about the history of the famous trails through Wyoming, you get a more realistic perspective with this book by learning about the geology.

The Road Rocks
Road trips are great.The American vistas are a national treasure.But, I used to feel a nagging disappointment that I could NOT remember my freshman Geology enough to really recognize and appreciate rock formations.Four Roadside Geology books later, the disappointment has eased.

This summer we are driving from Texas to Wyoming.We plan to use the book to really appreciate what we see along the way.Then, we will leave the book as a host gift.

Want your road to rock?Buy Roadside Geology...

A must for any traveler in Wyoming
This book is a must have book for travel in this state.Besides making the long miles go by faster it is educational and you will learn why this place looks like it does. ... Read more

Product Description
This book is for everyone who ever traveled in these lovely states and wondered about the meaning of their landscapes and tortured rocks. Since it is a book for the traveler, it concentrates on what you can see from a car, yet it points out interesting places to stop and examine rocks you can get close to, touch, or even sample. It addresses the broad plate tectonic concepts of opening and closing oceans, volcanism, mountain building, and colliding continents. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Too much geology, not enough roadside
I have a layperson's understanding of geology, from plate tectonics to glaciers and moraines.Yesteryear, I had found the Roadside volume on Idaho quite helpful in understanding the variety of geological formations in that state.I hoped that the guide to Vermont and New Hampshire would be equally helpful when I visit family in New Hampshire.The text, which I am reading in Georgia, may be helpful when I am there on the ground, but I am worried that it will not be.The geological detail is more than I am willing to spend time absorbing.The highways covered are too few to be useful to me, and I found the maps difficult to read, even with a magnifying glass.

Handy on a road trip
I purchased this book for my husband who has a lively if amateur interest in geology, so that we could consult it during a trip to the White Mountains of New Hampshire. It is one of a series that seem to be very well done, especially because you can refer to the landscape as you are traveling according to the indexing in the book. ... Read more

Product Description
Illinois--a flat and boring state with nothing but cornfields and crowded expressways, right? Balderdash! Geology Underfoot in Illinois scratches the Prairie State's surface to expose geologic diversity that stretches back more than a billion years. Enjoy an unexpected exploration of Chicago's architectural geology. Embark on a fault-seeking expedition in Mark Twain's big-river country. Or try moraine-surfing on Interstates 55 and 74. Copious illustrations and witty, page-turning prose guide readers on geologic walking or driving tours of thirty-seven sites in Illinois. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Enthusiastically recommended for anyone who is eager to see all the natural wonders Illinois has to offer
Geology Underfoot in Illinois is an amazing tour of the geological diversity and wonders to be found in the great state of Illinois. Readers of all backgrounds are sure to enjoy the geologic walking or driving tours of thirty-seven Illinois sites. Maps and black-and-white photographs enhance this wonderfully enriching complement to solo or family vacations. "The most accessible [canyon] from the Starved Rock footpath is French Canyon. One of the loveliest times to see it is in winter, when the falling streams have frozen into sparkling columns of ice. To me, these narrow rockbound defiles, with their horizontal ribbing of Paleozoic strata, define the Illinois landscape every bit as much as the prairies." Enthusiastically recommended for anyone who is eager to see all the natural wonders Illinois has to offer, not just its flora and fauna.

fascinating
A facinating, somewhat obscure book--or at least an obscure idea. But well exectued and very interesting for us geology novices.

surprisingly interesting
Although not a native of this state,but having lived here for a few years,I was impressed with what I had missed while there.There is some very interesting geology here.This book is like a guide to some interesting geologic sites and events that happened here.My only complaint is that the map or sketchesat the beginning of each little adventure could be better,but,as I've said I don't live in Illinois so maybe it's just me that finds some fault with this.

Raymond Wiggers loves Illinois ...
... and he shows his affection in every word of _Geology Underfoot in Illinois_. Here the reader will learn, in a casual and sometimes humorous way, the history of the Prairie State, what rocks and minerals it holds, and prevailing overall, how the glaciers impacted North American terrain during the Ice Age. Because the book proceeds regionally from north to south, natives and tourists alike can follow along by car or on foot. But even if you never visit Illinois, there are juicy tidbits for you to chew on and be surprised by. Like the fact that Illinois is NOT flat. Like the bizarre origins of the Streeterville neighborhood, which was created in the 1880s only after George "Cap" Streeter grounded a ship along the Lake Michigan shoreline and encouraged construction waste to be dumped around it to form a landfill. Or what happened to the Amoco Building when its pricey Italian-quarried marble sides were exposed to the extremes of Chicago weather. Or the fact that the kitty litter capital of the world may very well be located in the southern tip of the state. Sadly, the black and white photos chosen to accompany the text miss the mark in capturing the true beauty of the sites. You'll simply have to see the places in person.

The author continues to make numerous appearances at nature centers and society meetings throughout Illinois. His presentation style in likable, informative, and funny, and audience members walk away knowing more about geology than they would have guessed possible. If you get a chance to see him speak, take it. You'll find the time well spent.[This reviewer was an Illinois resident when these comments were written.]

Illinois is somewhat better than boring
The author is (properly) defensive about his state's lack of scenic wonders.For a fact, any random square mile of Utah probably will have more visible, interesting geology than the entire state of Illinois.Thatbeing said, Mr. Wiggers manages to make what geology there is fairlyintersting. I think this book would be ideal for someone who lives inIllinois.He provides thirty-seven sites spread thoughout the state thatcould be visited on a day or weekend trip and teach you a lot about yourstate you probably didn't know. ... Read more

Product Description

This book teaches what everyone needs to know about geology and how science and scientists work. Readers will discover a new appreciation for their surroundings, learning how to prepare for any number of geologic and environmental threats and how our Earth can continue providing all of our needs for food, shelter, and material well-being as long as we don’t squander these resources. The latest discoveries in the geosciences are covered, including Earth systems interactions, continental tectonics and mountain-building, a vastly expanded treatment of the geologic timescale and the evolution of life, and more. Up-to-the-minute examples of exciting geological processes are presented, such as the most recent volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunami, floods, and discoveries on Mars and on the Earth’s own seafloors. For anyone interested in exploring how physical geology impacts the world around us.

Customer Reviews (2)

Not happy
I was not informed that the book was notebook form, and it took a very long time to ship.

Amazing geologist!
I had Chernicoff as a geology professor at the University of Washington, and we used his book.Not only were his classes fascinating, but his book was fabulous.The way he put it together and explained everything wasfantastic; he excells at making those of us foreign to the world of geologyinterested in the subject (especially undergrads who are taking a geologyclass because it's required!).Furthermore, he does so in a way that iseasily understandable and not at all confusing. He gives countless examplesof what he is describing throughout, making the material even more easy todigest.It is easy to tell that he has a passion for what he does; itshows through in his writing.This is a perfect starting place for thoseinterested in geological matters. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Excellent guide!!
This is a extremely well written resource for anyone interested in Maryland's geologic features and geologic history!!

Excellent Resource
This book is an excellent resource.As someone without a geology background, I found the text easy to follow and understand.The writing is clear and concise and the diagrams are very helpful.

Very nicely done
The book presents a complicated topic about as clearly as can possibly be done, without watering it down excessively.Quite a superb job, all in all.If you think you might be interested in the subject matter, you will probably be happy with this book. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

For anyone curious of the science of the environment of the west
The great basin of the United States has brought countless thought and wonder to scientists over the years. "Geology of the Great Basin" is a scientific guide discussing the many unique features and history of the basin. Describing the core fundamentals of geology when approaching this region, Bill Fiero gives readers a complete and comprehensive discussion, complete with color photographs, many maps of many types, diagrams and more. For anyone curious of the science of the environment of the west, "Geology of the Great Basin" is a top pick that should not be ignored.

home is nevada!
An amazing description of one of the most geologically diverse and unique areas in the world that lies almost in the shadow of Las Vegas. Easy to understand if you don't have a lot of science background and easy to see if you travel the Great Basin area. A great introduction to geology in general and the geological features of Nevada in particular.

A superb introduction to the Great Basin
The National Park Service maintains an excellent website devoted to exploring geology in the national parks. It developed the site primarily for teachers, listing a host of educational resources devoted to national parks from Maine to Hawaii. The materials are specifically designed for teaching geology, but they could be easily incorporated into a general science class. Best of all, they provide an reliable source of information for the general reader as a starting point.

As one example, John McPhee got me interested in the Great Basin with Basin and Range, a wonderful book about the history and geology of the region. (Another excellent book on the region I enjoyed is The Sagebrush Ocean, Tenth Anniversary Edition: A Natural History Of The Great Basin (Max C. Fleischmann Series in Great Basin Natural History.) by Stephen Trimble.) I've traveled in the area a bit, and always enjoy reading more about the Basin. As a general reader, I thought that NPS's review of this book was a perfect description:

"This book is filled with black and white and color photos as well as sketches that explain the geology of the Great Basin. A terrific jargon-free guide for anyone who wants to know about the physical characteristics of the region. This best-selling book has introduced casual readers to the geologic wonders of the Great Basin for over ten years. From the sun-scorched sands of Death Valley to the briny waters of the Great Salt Lake, Fiero takes readers on an earthly tour that encompasses nearly 250,000 square miles--in six states. Magnificent color photos and informative diagrams are combined to make it easy for the nonscientist to understand this still relatively secret part of the North American Continent."

If you have any interest in the national parks, stop by the National Park's wonderful website nps.gov . If you have any interest in the Great Basin, follow NPS's suggestion and pick up this excellent book.

Robert C. Ross 2008

Excellent Great Basin introduction
While perhaps not for the hedonistic traveler intent on enjoying the nightlife in Las Vegas or Reno, this book is an excellent primer for those interested in understanding the origin of the geologic structures observable in the Great Basin.
I checked it out of the Library and have since determined to purchase it as it explains much what I observe around me (as a resident of the area in question) on a daily basis.

America's Great Unknown revealed
The Great Basin is generally regarded as "flyover country", meaning you either fly over it or drive through it on your way to somewhere else.The big cities are all on the edge; Salt Lake City, Reno, Las Vegas.And it isn't "scenic" for the most part, having only one national park. Say the two words, and most Americans think of a dreary, dry, empty expanse of overgrazed sagebrush.Well, most Americans are wrong.

The Great Basin, explored on its terms, is a fascinating expanse of unique geology, as Bill Fiero, a professor of geology at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, shows you in this fine book.Written in easily read style, and understandable to anyone who has gone to high school,the book takes you on a general tour of the wonders of Great Basin, including well-known Bonneville Salt Flats, a remnant of an Ice Age lake bigger than Lake Michigan.You will also read about recent volcanoes, earthquake activity and faults, deep trenches such as Death Valley, ancient, dried up rivers, and fossil sand dunes.Canyons, badlands, and mountains are also part of this region, and author Fiero takes you through these areas as well, all the while explaining how and why all of these features came to exist as they do.

The book not only has excellent color and black and white photographs, following side-by-side with the narratives, but gives the reader an excellent background on physical geology in general,Indeed, it could easily be used as an introductory college text.Remember that one advantage to the Great Basin is its aridity, which enables you to see and understand the rocks and what they tell much better.

I bought the original edition two decades ago, and the recent revision is even better.Anyone planning a trip to the Southwest, in particular, Nevada, would be well advised to obtain this book.As with most folks, I like to gamble and see the shows when I go, but this book will show you many more fascinating things to see and do.Highly recommended to anyone with an interest in the geology, or the Southwest as a whole. ... Read more

Product Description
From the tightly folded formations in the Appalachians across the broad reaches of horizontal sedimentary layers in the Allegheny Plateau, Pennsylvania's rocks record hundreds of millions of years of geologic history that tell an astounding storyThis book enables the reader to recognize the rocks and understand their meaning. It explains the landscapes of Pennsylvania in terms anyone can understand and enjoy. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Geology is fun
Since my husband and I were going to be spending a week in Pennsylvania, I brought the Roadside Geology book of PA along.I was interested in understanding the local geology and was happy to discover three fossil sites within the area we stayed.I was able to look at a Triassic fossil dinosaur footprint at one site and find some Devonian fossils in another.The Roadside Geology book is great for someone who only has a short period of time to explore a particular area.I hope they'll put one out for every state (particularly Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia...hint hint hint.) ... Read more

Product Description
This informative guide covers the five billion years of history that have given the earth its present form, including:

The earth's relation to the rest of the universe
The rocks and minerals of which it is made
The effects of glaciers, gravity, volcanoes, and other forces

Illustrated in full color, this guide is valuable for everyone interested in our planet, the ultimate basis of our present society.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Excellent
This book is small but packed with information.Useful for the student and for reference.Maybe a bit expensive.

Everything you need to know about geology
This book is smaller than probably any other earth science book, but I've learned more from it than any other.This Golden Guide includes detailed information about things everyone should know, and it has easy reference of tables and diagrams like the geologic time scale and different types of rocks and volcanoes.I would definitely recommend this book.It's a great review of geology, and very helpful in preparing for science tournaments. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

A timeless classic for everyone from amateurs to Ph.D.s
After I got my Ph.D. in geology, I became a college geology teacher, and I learned half of what I know about general geology from this book. It's that good.

I'm looking at my first copy of Geology Illustrated, which was given to me by my graduate advisor in the 1990s.I think it's one of the best book gifts anyone ever gave me.

I'll add my voice to the chorus of praise for John Shelton's `Geology Illustrated', which exemplifies, I think, all that was good about the `classic era' of postwar American science and science education. As several other reviewers have pointed out, the book dates from 1966, and it avoids any significant discussion of plate tectonics, which was then inchoate, but Geology Illustrated suffers not one whit from the omission.

What this book does is to train the reader - `viewer' might be a more accurate term - to recognize what's important in an outcrop or a landscape, so that they can start to read the history of that particular corner of the world. As Shelton puts it so beautifully in his Introduction, ``Very often, however, the geologist is driven by plain curiosity... Indeed, the same curiosity can be aroused simply by pausing over the view from any hilltop and asking: Has it *always* looked like this?''

Shelton starts with the very basics - learning to tell one rock from another. He goes on to help the reader acquire a `geologist's eye' by taking them through a number of very clearly and engagingly written case studies. The prose in Geology Illustrated is wonderful, and we could probably learn a lot about nonfiction writing by studying it. For me, reading it is pure pleasure.

As I began a career of teaching introductory geology for a living, I had to learn to embrace and love all aspects of geology, even the ones that hadn't interested me much when I was a callow undergraduate. Geology Illustrated opened those doors for me. I found myself opening it to random chapters while sitting in my office before class, or while students were taking a test, and it was a joy to make one discovery after another. The section on the Grand Canyon, for example, with its `forward-then-reverse' captions, is simply masterful. As much as I love high technology, Google Earth, and my MacBook Pro, I honestly doubt that anything - no matter how digital, immersive, or 3D - is ever going to match Shelton's treatment of the Grand Canyon and the story to be read in its rocks.

One of the nicest touches in the book is the inclusion of Hal Shelton's marvelous annotated drawings. Although John Shelton's photographs are beautifully composed and reproduced, the drawings help to illustrate the essential geologic features of each scene, cutting through the `clutter' of soil, vegetation, and culture that can distract the eye from the geology.

If you can find a copy, and you're interested in the stories of the Earth, I can't recommend this book highly enough.

P.S.: It's also worth checking among purveyors of audiovisual materials for John Shelton's set of 35mm `Earth Science Slides'. I was fortunate enough to acquire one of these sets shortly after I began teaching, and they're a wonderful companion to Geology Illustrated. Some of the images are the same as in G.I., but many are not, and the slides come with a small companion book by Shelton. Additionally, Shelton served as an advisor to Encyclopedia Britannica Films in the 1960s, and made some very nice 16mm educational films, some of which may be available as video transfers. If you like `Geology Illustrated', you'll love `Rocks that Originate Underground', for example. I don't care what high-tech learning tools someone comes up with in the future, Shelton's words and images will always be the gold standard as far as I'm concerned.

Happily, there are other treasures like Geology Illustrated waiting to be discovered by the interested reader, such as the writings of Francois Matthes, Fritiof Fryxell, and Clarence Dutton. And if you want a great, classic, `old-school' textbook, try to get a copy of the 2nd edition of `Principles of Geology' by Gilluly, Waters, and Woodford, from 1959.

Geology Illustrated
Good condition, especially considering the age. I once designeda course in limnology (fresh water ecology) and found this book to be a marvelous resource.

Very, very highly recommended!!!
First, the writing style of the author is impeccable and very approachable for such a technical subject. You will pick up the subject matter very quickly.

Second, and the reason I initially bought the book, are the photos and illustrations. I have looked at many geology books, and this book CLEARLY stands head and shoulders above the others, for fantastic graphics.

In closing, I will refund your money if you are not happy! :-)

Superbly sets forth the foundations of geology
Why do the hills and valleys, mountains and plains and rivers and lakes around us have the shapes they do? John Shelton explains the origins of rocks and landforms in uniquely clear and simple logical reasoning always illustrated with superb photographs closely integrated with the text. He leads the reader step by step through the evidence and reasons by which we know the meanings of the textures of rocks and the messages of fossils and of the shapes of hills and valleys.

Shelton uses many splendid aerial photographs throughout to great advantage. But the greatest virtue of this book is the simplicity and clarity of the text. Any student can follow this text and any interested person will enjoy it.

Shelton wrote when plate tectonics was new and unsettled and he chose to omit it entirely. Do not be put off. There are abundant other sources for plate tectonics. There is no other introduction to the nature and origins of rocks and landforms to compare with this.

Tops For Learning To See The Earth
If you open this book in the middle and just start reading, chances are you'll find something great.Maybe it's a landslide that came down into a valley with enough momentum to run up the other side.Or an orange grove that's been split by a fault and because of the rows you can see how the earth's moved.One interesting thing after another.

It also works if read from beginning to end, which I did recently after randomly dipping into it for years.It's excellent that way too.

The format is mostly black and white aerial pictures explained by clear, descriptive prose.As a non-geologist, I usually just skipped over the words I didn't understand.It was still great.

The author opens one's eyes to landforms, the shapes of hills and mountains, of rivers and valleys.I see so much now when I travel that I would not have seen without this book.

I particularly recommend it for those who've just bought an RV and are about to travel through the American southwest. ... Read more

Product Description
"Physical Geology, 10/e" is the latest refinement of a classic introductory text that has helped countless students learn basic physical geology concepts for over 20 years. Students taking introductory physical geology to fulfill a science elective as well as those contemplating a career in geology will appreciate the accessible writing style and depth of coverage in "Physical Geology, 10/e". Hundreds of carefully rendered illustrations and accompanying photographs correlate perfectly with the chapter descriptions to help the reader quickly grasp new geologic concepts. Numerous chapter learning tools and a rich Online Learning Center website further assist students in their study of physical geology. For professors, McGraw-Hill offers a complete supplement package consisting of slides, transparencies, computerized testbank, PowerPoint lectures, and digital images of every single piece of artwork and photograph in the text. These valuable supplements will make teaching easier and assist in fully conveying important concepts to students.McGraw-Hill is committed to adding considerable quality to each new edition of "Physical Geology" in the form of new and revised content, artwork, supplements, and media technology. Professors can adopt "Physical Geology, 10/e" with confidence and count on the authors and McGraw-Hill to help them most effectively teach introductory physical geology to their students. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

A Worthwhile Resource
This book provides a great frame of reference and perspective on the subject of Geology. It provides a well-structured overview of the subject, as well as a good guide for practical learning. It is an attractive book, and the content is surprisingly accessible, so it is suitable for a non-specialist audience as well as those studying it as a prescribed text.

The book is also well made and contains some excellent images. It's a little pricey, but worth having on your bookshelf, especially if you can pick up a copy secondhand.

Introductory Geology Text
This is the 10th edition of the now classic Physical Geology text by Plummer, at al. It is a good introductory text on the subject suitable for first year undergraduates.

It is beautifully illustrated, well organized and covers the subject in depth from discriptive geology to plate techtonics.

Very easy to read, lots of images
This book is so well spelled out about geology. It was actually fun to read. If you dont use it for a colleg class, use it to make yourself smarter.

Very Detailed
This is a very detailed textbook. If you want to learn about Geology in great detail this is the book for you. I recently learned that a new version will be coming out soon. I know this because my university will not buy the book back since the new edition will replace this edition next semester. If you plan on buying this book wait because the price will go down as soon as the new edition comes out. ... Read more

Product Description
Unraveling Alaska's complex and fragmented geologic history would have baffled Sherlock Holmes. Alaska is a mosaic patchwork, a collage of continental scraps swept in from the Pacific and added, one after the other, onto the far northwest corner of the continent. Here are the rocky foundations of Alaska, every bit as exotic as the landscape they support, just as varied and vital as the people who live in that landscape.Due to the rugged terrain and limited road access, this is not just a "roadside" book--it describes the geology of southeast Alaska as one might see it from the observation lounge of one of Alaska's comfortable ferries traveling the marine highway. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Roadside Geology of Alaska
Great book for a traveller interested in Geology and travel.The material is refined to fit your travel program and has a general overview of the state.

GeoNewbie
This is a great book!! If you live in, or are interested in visiting Alaska, be sure to read this. Then with all that is within you, attempt to check out what it says in the field. It is written by geologists who actually live in Alaska. It is great to read along with a rock and mineral identification guide, so you can more easily identify them in the field later. Buy it, read it. ... Read more

Product Description
A comprehensive introduction that focuses on all of the major scientific processes of physical geology. Researched and written by two eminent geologists, the third edition includes new overarching themes of environmental issues and human interaction with the earth and its resources. Each chapter begins with an essay on this subject. Each part ends with a guest essay on the good stewardship of the Earth—how we can take care of our planet. The art program has been revised with 40ew art throughout to reflect current research. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

review of geology book
Book was marked in 'Good' condition. It was very highlighted, and I was pretty disappointed when I first received it. Nonetheless, I have gotten used to the marks and don't really mind them anymore.

good book, bad support
Great book . Unfortunately, the CD rom is for windows 2000, and not upgradable to XP , let alone 7. Wiley seems to have little interest in helping. A little support would be appreciated.

Very Good, if Pricy, Textbook
This book is one of the standard university texts in physical geology, along with Understanding Earth by Frank Press et al. The book is well written and very well illustrated. The discription ofplate tectonics and it's integration throughout the book is very well done. Like most such texts, it has the disadvantage of being written by lifelong academics with little or no contact with the extraxtive industries. Their treatment of energy extraction is superficial at best. One of the most important developments in geology over the past 30 years, that of sequence stratigraphy, does not even get a mention, perhaps because it came out of the oil exploration industry. (Understanding Earth does devote a paragraph or two to sequence stratigraphy.)

I confess that I did not buy a copy from Amazon. I picked mine up at a Border's Bookstore in London. The only difference in my copy and one bought in the US is a large graphic on the cover saying "Restricted: not for sale in North America". Why the restriction? Like many university textbooks, this one can be bought in overseas at a fraction of the US price. My undiscounted Border's London price was $59.19, a little more than half the US price. Quite remarkable, considering the current weakness of the US dollar to the UK pound.

a very dynamic earth
Skinner, Porter and Park give you a richly illustrated introduction to geology. The text spans the breadth of modern geology, and shows an exciting and changing planet. There are numerous photos of examples of terrain, often accompanied by schematics to aid understanding. The latest techniques practised in geology are explained. Especially noteworthy is the extensive use of GPS. This has greatly aided recording the location of interesting geological samples.

Earthquakes are also well covered, and will probably be of interest to many readers, especially if you are in California. The history of the Richter and Mercalli scales is gone into. Unfortunately, predicting quakes is still very uncertain!

The discussion on earthquakes is also used as a good example of plate tectonics, where the latter is probably the central idea of geology.

An Excellent Physical Geology Textbook & Reference Source
This book is for all persons, students and others, who wish to learn geology with over 500 easy-to-read pages. The Earth is a giant machine, a machine that never stops. How the Earth-machine works is the story told in this book, and it is a fascinating story. The science that studies the Earth is geology, and those involved in the study are geologists. Physical processes are shaping the Earth now and have been shaping the Earth over the past 4.5 billion years. ... Read more