Teach Yourself Geology

by David A. Rothery

This comprehensive introduction to the nature and history of the Earth digs deep into topics ranging from volcanoes and earthquakes to the implications of our limited natural resources. Any science enthusiast wanting a more in-depth understanding of geology will find fascinating explanations of the origin and evolution of the Earth; rocks, minerals, and fossils; key geological processes; and the geology of other planets. Readers will even learn how to carry out their own fieldwork. The accessible text is enhanced throughout with illustrations, photographs, and annotated diagrams.

Genres: Science, Geology, Nonfiction, Reference

256 pages, Paperback

First published June 30, 1998

About the author

David Rothery is Professor of Planetary Geosciences at the School of Physical Sciences within the Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics at the Open University.

Reviews

[Tadeusz Pudlik · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading his excellent Planets: A Very Short Introduction, I sought out other books by David Rothery. This one did not disappoint: both interesting and informative, short but with no fluff. It made me want to learn more and buy a college textbook on geology, which is perhaps the highest possible praise for a popular science book!

[Brittain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I studied geology quite a bit in college 20 years ago and even intended on becoming a geologist (which didn't end up happening). I read this to get reacquainted with concepts that have slipped my mind in the intervening years, and this well-written book certainly did that.

What I didn't expect was to learn brand new concepts, so I was very pleasantly surprised every time the author gave me a new "Aha!", and it happened regularly. If you have never studied geology extensively before, these moments will happen on almost every page.

I borrowed this from my local library to read, but now I intend on buying it to keep in my collection.

[Warren Wulff · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid introduction to all aspects of earth science, not just geology. From here one can branch out to further learning in sedimentology, mineralogy, volcanism and orogeny, physical and chemical earth processes, plate tectonics, palaeontology, and the history of the earth. Well worth the read. Almost 20 years old so underplays seriousness of anthropogenic climate change but it is in line with the science at the time.

[Lisa Konet · Rating 5 out of 5]

These was a nice introduction to everything relating to our planet. I’m quite a nerd when it comes to earth science, natural disasters and rocks and this has it all and more. Makes me want to read more geology books!

[Geoff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good introduction to geology. Started off a little slow, but became more engaging after first two chapters. Gave me the language and a small foundation to start my next venture into Geology.

[Gerry McCaffrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Impressive volume, think I will retain as a reference book. There was so much information…

[Noah Oanh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great introduction to geology and the science about Earth and other planets. It makes me want to read more book about geology or even go further into the field. The whole new world about rocks and why they are there are really fascinating which have so much things to learn about rocks (Igneous rock - đá magma, Metamorphic rock - đá biến chất, Sedimentary rock - đá trầm tích) and other things like earthquakes/ seismic wave (sóng địa chấn), the Earth's crust and mantle and other layers included lithosphere (thạch quyển), asthenosphere (quyển mềm) till the core of Earth, tsunami, plate tectonics (mảng kiến tạo), volcanoes, and even fossils - yes by study rocks you would know ton of stuffs about your fossil. Necessary knowledge and something I don't know much but need to know more from now on!

[Megan Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very good quick overview of geology.