The Practical Geologist: The Introductory Guide to the Basics of Geology and to Collecting and Identifying Rocks

The Practical Geologist: The Introductory Guide to the Basics of Geology and to Collecting and Identifying Rocks
by Dougal Dixon

The Practical Geologist: The Introductory Guide to the Basics of Geology and to Collecting and Identifying Rocks
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Book Summary Information

Author: Dougal Dixon
Edition: Paperback
Published: 1992-08-15
ISBN: 0671746979
Number of pages: 160
Publisher: Fireside

Book Reviews of The Practical Geologist: The Introductory Guide to the Basics of Geology and to Collecting and Identifying Rocks

Book Review: A rocky read
Summary: 4 Stars

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.

Summary of The Practical Geologist: The Introductory Guide to the Basics of Geology and to Collecting and Identifying Rocks

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.

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