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This book is an excellent addition to my sons library. He said it has the most amazing pictures and commentary that he's seen.
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. Nonetheless, I am giving this book four stars: I think that what this book does, it does well. 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". 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. Among my many interests, geology has always been lurking in the background, one that I never really pursued but nonetheless seemed worth knowing about.
This is not really the case. For this reason, I finally got around to getting a book on the topic, and picked out The Practical Geologist by Dougal Dixon. 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. If you're looking for a first book on geology, however, I would search elsewhere. Instead, it just presents the facts and moves onto the next topic.
Plenty of illustrations to help visualize various concepts and landforms. Both adults and children.I recommend this book to anyone, like myself, who hasn't had a formal education in geology and just wanted to find out a little more. I checked this book out of the library and after halfway through decided it was a keeper and ordered my own copy. If you're wanting text on more involved subjects or specific reference I would suggest the NATIONAL AUDUBON SOCIETY books. Dixon's writing style is straight forward and easy to follow. Great for someone who is wanting to learn a little geology but hasn't done any study before. It deals with what you really need and not just what neat tools you can get (and probably never have a use for).All of this makes for a good 'First Book on the Subject' read.
Mr. I found the bit about tools and equipment really informative. Good jumping off point, but the subject is deep and wide. I say that because if you have read any other introductory texts most of this book will be a review.
Not a bad intro to geology for older kids or interested adults; well-illustrated and clearly written.
After a long search, I've finally found a basic geology that is not for children, but is wonderful for an adult hobbyist. Gorgeous pictures, nice explanatory drawings, index and glossary are very helpful
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