Geology of the Great Basin

by Bill Fiero

Geology of the Great Basin is the essential introduction to the geology of this physically complex, ever-changing region. Written in a clear, succinct style and generously illustrated with photographs, diagrams, and maps, the book describes the fundamentals of geologic processes, then discusses the physical attributes and geologic history of the Great Basin. The author also offers readers information about specific sites where significant geologic features can be observed. The book, first published in 1986, is now available in a new, easier-to-handle paperback edition that will make it more convenient for classroom use and for readers who want to carry it with them in their car or backpack.

Genres: Geology, Nonfiction, Nature

249 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1986

Reviews

[Tony Gualtieri · Rating 5 out of 5]

An old-fashioned geological survey of the Great Basin. The centerpiece is a history of the tectonic movements that created the region. The major landmarks are relatively recent, such as the basin and range topography. More ancient are the rocks themselves formed as continental plates bashed over and under each other.

The prose is good, even poetic at times, but scientific jargon occasionally takes over. What are “allochthon”, clastic”, or “plutons”? The internet helps with these definitions as do online animations of continental drift.

[Daniel Morgan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Despite being old, this was an amazing guide to the Great Basin. The book has 3 sections (and 17 chapters): the first is an introduction to the Great Basin region and geology in general, the second is the historical geology of the region (PreCambrian, Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic), and the third examines the modern economic and cultural significance of the region. This author's use of figures are second to none - he includes diagrams that explain every single geologic process or event of significance, historical geological maps overlaid on the current state borders, timelines, and abundant photographs that illustrate the geology he discusses. This is a clear and engaging guide to the Great Basin geology.

[William Stobb · Rating 3 out of 5]

G.B. geology's really interesting, and this book covers it. Sometimes the writing's not that great in it.