Landforms and Landscapes

Rating:
Summary: One of the best Geomorphology texts
Review: I always thought that this was the best written, most comprehensive, yet concise, geomorphology text that I ever found. When time came for me to drastically weed out my library, this was the only book on the subject that I kept. It is a scholarly treatment, but not a mathematical one.

The chapter structure is as follows: 1. Introduction to Geomorphology, 2. Weathering and Mass Wasting, 3. Stream Growth and Valley Development, 4. The Development of Stream Eroded Landscapes, 5. Geomorphic Systems- Theory and Philosophy, 6. Glaciers and Glaciated Landscapes, 7. Wind, Waves, Ground Water, and Volcanism.

All subjects are excellently illustrated by full page portions of actual topographic maps, as well as, crisp cross-sections and diagrams.

This one volume seems to cover just about all the basics of the field. Anything in more depth would probably have to be more of a mathematical/engineering approach. As it is, this slim volume gives a comprehensive appreciation of the structures and processes that form our dynamic, intelligent, planet.

Indeed, not only will you understand the processes that mold the landscape anywhere on earth, but these same principles have been shown to be applicable in the field of planetary geology.