Geology: A Complete Introduction (Teach Yourself)

I love this book. It is neither too simple nor too complicated for the lay person to understand. I've had this book for years and years, but it was getting worn so I ordered this updated version and if you love geology but you're not anywhere near an expert, this is a wonderful book - more thorough than a lot of the non-expert books out there, but still written for people like me - just right for a thorough introduction.

In my opinion David Rothery has successfully condensed a very complex subject into a mere 388 pages , yet, he clearly explains the earth's magnetic core, plate tectonics, rock mineral formation, solar system geology, and more with sufficient detail to be intellectually pleasing to a lay person with at least some college science. Although any serious rock enthusiast will find the book enthralling.I found Appendix 2 which covers formation and characteristics of igneous, metaphoric, and sedimentary rocks especially helpful. I recommend reading this section before starting Chapter 1. I found it to be a good introduction to geology and some of its terminology.

Mom just became interested in Geology and the history of our planet. She has enjoyed this book, but finds it a bit dry for every day reading.

Daughter loves rocks. Very interesting!!

Very informative. Words meaningful to an understanding of geology are introduced and explained / defined. These are then used throughout as if you now know / remember what they mean. To look back and refresh on their meaning, (there are a lot of them), would be easier if you had the book, instead of downloading to a reader. The reading was so informative anyway, I gave it 5 stars.

It is basically a textbook, so it isn’t exactly entertaining, but it is easy to comprehend and good at being what it is. I enjoyed the short concise yet thorough chapters. The little cut outs that remind you of key takeaways are great. It is a great informative read.

I enjoyed the book. I will be reading it through a second time soon. The author provides plenty of information and personal tips and knowledge from the field.

Great starter for the reoccurring question “how did that get here?” A broad range of topics are covered in a nontechnical manner. Very nice to have on hand in the field.