Historical Geology: Evolution of Earth and Life Through Time [with CD-ROM & InfoTrac]

by Reed Wicander, James S. Monroe

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.

Genres: Geology, Science, Textbooks, Nonfiction

448 pages, Paperback

First published June 15, 1962

Reviews

[Pyroclastic Ash · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have the 7th edition of this, so my review is based on that. I read this for a class, but I am a geoscience lover and appreciate it either way. I like the Summary at the end of each chapter that touches on the main points in the chapter. Super useful.

[Acenith Claassen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! What can I say? Rocks, rock. Highly recommend.

[Paige Bailey · Rating 4 out of 5]

If it were possible to give 4.5 stars, this textbook would have received that rating instead. However, there were too many simplified graphics - and, towards the later chapters, typos - to merit a perfect rating.

Excellent photo accompaniments, though, and the "perspectives" added to each section were a nice touch. An expanded final chapter on the evolution of primates / hominids would have been nice, and perhaps more of a concentration on geochemistry and geophysics in chapters 4 and 5.

All in all, a pleasurable read, and a decent text for an introductory course in Historical Geology.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't recall spending $214 on this text in college when I needed it for a class, and so I can't willingly agree to the inflated price it has come to. It's certainly not worth that as a short, albeit tall, paperback text.

That being said, it is still a decent book that is easy to read, chock full of information, diagrams, maps, etc. and is definitely a staple for learning the ins and outs of Geology. It never assumes that you are a Geology major or that you'll know most, if not all, the knowledge presented inside the text and so, step by step, it guides you instead of preaches to you.

Again, not worth the money it's set at right now, but fine otherwise.

[Mike Dixon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wicander and Monroe's book is aimed at college students but is easily understood by the general reader. It is well illustrated and limited to information needed for an understanding of the basic processes that shaped our planet. I am not in a position to comment on its value for teaching. What I can say is that it has added to my enjoyment as a traveler, going around the world and seeing the amazing variety of land forms. On that basis, I award it five stars.

[Jeremy · Rating 5 out of 5]

College textbook. I really enjoyed this book. It gave me great basic knowledge of geology, including comprehending the age of the earth, knowledge of the different geologic time frames, radiometric and carbon dating, evolution, understanding the different types of rock, tectonic plate activity, etc.

[Scott Whitney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very easy to read and understand. A good basic introduction to historical geology. It was a good semester.