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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Sparkling beaches, tidal estuaries, and granite headlands ornament the Massachusetts coast, while giant folds of gneiss and schist crisscross the interior, squeezed up between colliding continents like toothpaste from a tube. James Skehan explains the geologic history behind the rocks and landforms visible from the state's highways, including such well-known historic features as Bloody Bluff, Beacon Hill, Plymouth Rock, and Walden Pond. Interspersed through the guidebook are tales of pioneering geologists such as Harvard's Louis Agassiz, the first to propose that continental glaciers--not the remnants of Noah's Flood as early settlers had imagined--polished the state's bedrock and deposited its enormous boulders and sand plains.Numerous maps and photographs reveal ancient volcanoes, marble potholes, colorful minerals, dinosaur footprints, and America's first commercial railroad--built with blocks of Quincy granite. Geologic roadguides include tours of Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area, Cape Cod National Seashore, Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, and Mount Greylock State Reservation. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Scholarly and Practical
You have to be a curious person to appreciate this book.This book helps you interpret the landscape, and it fills you with awe and wonder. Strongly suggest that you buy the Bedrock Geology Map of Massachusetts to have with you in the car.

Amateur Naturalist's opinion
This book has a great foundation of Massachusetts Geology for the amateur Naturalist.It is wonderful for identification of bedrock for where you are as well as locations of where to find what you are looking for.

Learn Geology Locally!
Skehan uses the fascinating geology of Massachusetts to teach amazing amounts of geology.Great for anybody who'll be traveling around the state who's interested in understanding the land.I want more!

Practical guide for the amateur and specialist
I have been looking for this sort of detailed, hands-on guide to Massachusetts geological formations for a while, & am delighted with Skehan's book.It's a bit of a tome yet readable and easy to bring along on roadtrips and hikes.

Great Guide
I read this book from cover to cover and was impressed with it's depth of information.I then actually brought this book into the field and it served me well.A great guide!!!!!! ... Read more

Product Description
Modern civilization's dependence upon an increasing volume and diversity of minerals makes the search for new ore deposits ever more difficult. Now available from Waveland Press, Guilbert & Park's text presents ideas, principles, and data fundamental for beginning economic geologists to understand the genesis and localization of ore deposits and of the minerals associated with them. The authors comprehensively describe the physical and chemical characteristics of ore deposits, and correlate them with environments and conditions of deposition since ore deposits are best interpreted as extensions of the environments responsible for their enclosing rocks. Examples and illustrations emphasize structural, chemical, and temporal controls and encourage the three-dimensional thinking used by productive explorationists as they face unsolved problems. This upper-level undergraduate text is fully illustrated and meticulously indexed. Its reliable, authoritative coverage assumes an upper-level command of chemistry and physics, as well as mineralogy, petrology, and structural geology. Outstanding features include: 1) develops and combines the abilities of the explorationist and of the researcher of ore-forming processes; 2) structures the geologic descriptions into groupings recognized by researches and explorers alike; 3) builds confidence, revitalizes curiosity, and encourages expanded thinking; 4) emphasizes that the days of "easy" discovery of outcropping ores are not over; and 5) includes revised, expanded, and updated descriptions of districts. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Classic and indispensible
This is the classic text of economic geology. Although each deposit is unique this book links much empirical data together in a way that aids understanding, eventually allowing the diligent reader to be a savvy prospector anywhere in the world. An excellent geological guide for geophysicists and indispensible for prospectors and explorationists in mining. Does not require any geology knowledge if you have a good minerology or geochemistry reference and are willing to hustle and learn some minerology as you go.

Content Fine, Print Quality average
The content of this book is great. As a practising geologist, I still find it a useful overview and for junior staff, I recommend it as the first point of reference. I strongly suggest this as a book to get if you haven't.
Having said that, this is not a new 2007 Edition; the content page describes this as a 2007 Reissue by Waveland Press of the 1986 Publication. I compared it directly to a 1986 version we also have in the office, and its the same, except that the 2007 reissue is printed (digital?)copy of the original. I've seen this in another revised edition (Applied Geophysics, Telford). Its OK for B&W line drawings but like any scan or photocopy, photos come out all contrasty and photos of fine rock textures lose much of their detail.The hardback cover is good quality, the paper is OK, but I would much rather have bought a second hand copy of the 1986 hardback
A for content, C for effort, B overall.

As a Textbook...
This book is interesting. It is quite dense in places and gets hard to read, but overall it is very useful. It is the main book in my economic geology class and is supplemented by several others that focus more specifically on other topics.

Just great!
This is an excellent book, absolutely necessary for any geologist or geology student. What more can I say? Maybe: Amazing!!!

A Geology-Centered Introduction to Ore Deposits
This is a book on the geology of ore deposits. It is not a book on exploration techniques. Although most of the geology described in this book is on land, there is also discussion of submarine volcanics and oceanic manganese nodules.

Carbonatites are mentioned as bearers of various metals, notably the REEs (rare earths). The authors treat carbonatites as strictly igneous rocks, comparable to kimberlites. The REE-rich Mountain Pass carbonatite of California is mentioned, but not the larger one at Bayan Obo, Inner Mongolia.

Pegmatites are featured as important carriers of precious metals. These include common metals, as well as exotic ones such as niobium, tantalum, rare earths, and many more. REEs are often found concentrated in the contact-metamorphic aureoles of pegmatites (p. 198). Most pegmatites are late-stage magmatic products, enriched in volatiles as well as elements that don't "fit" the matrices of the common granitic minerals.

Many economic deposits are the result of concentration by alteration processes. Apropos to this, a helpful table of the relative mobility of ions is included (p. 780). Attention is also devoted to skarn deposits.

Details are given about such things as porphyry copper deposits, various hydrothermal deposits, massive sulphide deposits, BIFs (banded iron formations) Mississippi-Valley type deposits, uranium deposits, bauxite, and much more. The chapter on placer deposits includes sketches of important auriferous placers.

There are several schematic sketches in this book. These include such things as the zonal distribution of metal deposits in a lithologic sequence.
... 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
Creationist author Dr. John Morris takes the reader on a tour of the earth's crust, describing all of the components, explaining earthquakes, mountains, volcanoes, geysers, and so much more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Wonders of Creation Series
We used this series at our Christian homeschool co-op.I didn't use all the series in my class but everyone I used I was impressed.Hard to find science books that do not make theories sound like proven fact.Would recommend this series.

Great resource for any children's home library
This book is very clearly written at a student's level and is a wonderful earth science resource. Explaining fossils, sedimentary rocks and glaciation and plate tectonics from a biblical perspective, the Geology Book is a wonderful, accurate and informative resource. The many, many colorful pictures that fill the pages grab students' attention while helping them "visualize" the processes explained in the text and the free online study guide that is made available helps teachers turn this text into a wonderful and indepth study. For students who learn best through literature, this book could easily be paired with A Grand Canyon Adventure

Excellent source of general geology knowledge
This book by John Morris gives wonderful insights into the wide field of modern geology knowledge. If you are a lay person in geology but interested to learn about it - this book is a "must read". This book is even more important to read if you have children who began to study geology at school and thus ask you questions about that.

In addition to technical knowledge, this book exposes a reader to the truth that everything around us is created by God of the Bible and evidence about that is everywhere, just as the Bible says in Romans 1:19-20. The book also gives much material to see that evidence (i.e. facts) is neutral and the way a person interprets it is completely driven by a person's worldview. Read this book and you'll see that the Biblical worldview makes way more sense than an evolutionary worldview.

Call it...theology...please.
The reviewer herein tagged as "a reviewer" is quite correct in his/her assessment of this book. I was looking for a basic geology science book, and since I have known the Morris family, I thought I would find an objective science book. Wrong. This book is targeted to children.

What I find remarkable is the comment by another reviewer, a "Brown," who makes the following remarkable observation in favor of the book: "Also, to the reviewer that commented that this book belongs in the "religious section," if that were the case, then any book trying to present the case for evolution would belong there as well. In order for anything to be accepted as scientific fact, one criterea is that it has to be observable. Anything beyond that is restricted to the area of theory and (yes, even for an evolutionist) faith."

Now, if what this reviewer says is true, then Dr. Morris, take note. In fact, pp. 73-75 (chapter 8) describes "the future earth", according to the Bible, of course, but then within the context of a dispensational, pre-millennial theological context (theology is not science). If what Brown (above) says is correct, that true science must fall within the realm of the 'observable' (which I would agree), then we have a real problem with Dr. Morris' book as he jumps from the observable, within the limits of the Bible (which is apriori assumption) to the purely spectulative in chapter 8, which is purely deductive reasoning.

Sadly, this book and most of the Institute for Creation Research (ICR) is essentially what I call a "Tinker Tank" (not Think Tank) for creationist theology, and not a genuine think-tank for real creation science. These folks spend their time antagonizing low-level evolutionists into "debates" which they edit to favor their worldview, and little, if any, core time in the field or laboratory. Here again, Philip Johnson, Michael Behe, et al., make the scientific case for creation within a more unblemished scientific context. You may wish to wet your appetite with the excellent DVD, "The Privileged Planet." I wish I could give more than one star to this book. I truly wish that these folks would enter the scientific arena without theological assumptions, and provide honest research, as others have, and not stand on the shoulders of theology. Writing about science does not science make.

Good Book
For openers, I'd like to add to the previous review as a Baptist by saying that we also still believe in the young earth view.

Also, to the reviewer that commented that this book belongs in the "religious section," if that were the case, then any book trying to present the case for evolution would belong there as well.In order for anything to be accepted as scientific fact, one criterea is that it has to be observable.Anything beyond that is restricted to the area of theory and (yes, even for an evolutionist) faith.

Now, onto the book itself.
The illustrations were indeed excellent, and the content was well written.It would probably go over the head of a first grader (unless the first grader can read words like "radioisotope" and is at least familiar with the periodic table of elements.)The book reads like a textbook, and isn't one I would picture a kid reading just for fun, unless he or she is deeply interested in geology, (but if they are, they'll get alot out of this book.)I'd recommend it as a homeschool textbook, or for a school library. ... 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 (5)

Love this book
OK I'm a new to geology. I am amazed to think about the many geologic formations that exsist. The book is a college level book that is both informative and enjoyable to read. It also makes you think. I'm glad I bought the book (yes - I'm cheap I got it used) but I will probably read it twice. Highly recommended for the newbee.

This is not a field guide or a rock ID book but an honest to goodness college level introductory text to introduce physical geology.

A great geology book.
This is the first geology book I have studied.It seems to be fairly complete for an introductory text.The pictures and graphics are excellent and the text easy to follow.A point that needs to be mentioned is that the authors repeat a lot of things multiple times.This is a good thing.It negates the need to go back and look stuff up that was forgotten or missed somehow.Repetition is the key to learning.The authors have done very well in this regard.

Review
The book wasn't in as good a shape as I expected but it wasn't bad either

Fast service!
I received my product quickly and it was exactly as described. No surprises. Very reliable.

Interesting and Easy to Understand
This is a great textbook for anyone who wants to learn more about Geology. It presents complex ideas in an easy to understand format. I bought this for a college course two years ago and I liked it so much that I still have it. ... 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
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
No one can ignore the colorful rocks of Utah: the Vermilion Cliffs of Wingate sandstone, the snow white and salmon pink bluffs of Navajo sandstone, or the yellow and pink rhyolite of Big Rock Candy Mountain. Roadside Geology of Utah is a riveting account of the forces that made the brilliant cliffs, mountains, and canyonlands we see today. The author's smooth prose brings the rocks of Utah and their long history into sharp and enjoyable focus. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Geology by car in Utah
This is fine book, one of a series by a geologist done for many states.This reviewer looks forward to having it in Utah on the next visit.There would be no way for an informed, but non-specialized visitor to understand the exposed geology without a text like this.

Ms. Chronic has done a similar book for my native State of Arizona and it offers much information about scenes with which I've been familiar.

CR Miller

Spectacular idea
I purchased this book for my husband, and he loves it so far. The book outlines most major roads in Utah and describes the geology along each road.

Another Winner In The Roadside Geology Series
I am now addicted to Halka Chronic's Roadside Geology books.I read ROADSIDE GEOLOGY OF ARIZONA first, because I live in Arizona.But I love Utah's weird geology as much as I love Arizona's, so ROADSIDE GEOLOGY OF UTAH was the next read in the stack.It is a wonderful overview of the forces that shaped the region from the Precambrian Period to the present.Travelers who gaze from the car window as they drive the highways of Utah can satisfy their curiosity about the formations they see on the way.

Yes, I am a Geology nerd.I am fascinated with the "bones of the world," and I find this book extrememly satisfying.If you plan to take a trip in Utah, take this one with you.

Roadside Geology of Utah
This book is amazingly interesting and informative. I can't wait to travel the state of Utah with this book as a guide!

study a bit before you use it
I'd recommend a little study of geology, and the formations found in Utah before hitting the road with this book. KC Publications 48 page glossy color "Colorado Plateau", which I found at one of the National Parks, gives you a great introduction to a good fraction of Utah and shows the positions of the formations along with a time line. If you are a layman at geology, unless you prepare, you will get dizzy with references to formations aided only by black and white pictures. The lack of color illustrations is puzzling when color means so much in identification of rocks in the area. If you can easily recognize formations, this book is a great aid as you travel. ... Read more