The Little Book of Planet Earth (Little Book Series) [Hardcover]

Rolf Meissner (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 15, 2002 | ISBN-10: 0387952586 | ISBN-13: 978-0387952581 | Edition: 1

The Little Book of Planet Earth presents a concise description of the geological evolution of Earth from its formation. Meissner describes in detailed but accessible prose not just the planet's features, but the tools that modern geologists use to explore and track the ever-changing subterranean and surface features of the planet. With a particular gift for expressing how the forces in and around our planet constantly alter the world we live in, the author introduces lay readers to the key topics in modern earth and planetary science: the creation of Earth and its moon (as well as stars and other planets), the role of seismology in analyzing Earth's structure, the formation of mountain ranges and basins, the role of plate tectonics, the significance of Earth's magnetic field, and the complex relationship of our planet's geology to the life forms found there.

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist

Retired professor Meissner organizes his compact, efficient introduction to earth history well. He alludes to one topic, then expands on it later so that the reader understands how geology integrates various specialties, including seismology, mineralogy, radioactive dating, and more. Meissner goes into deepest detail on the way seismic waves behave, how crystals form, and how decay elements are graphed to estimate age. This how-to underlies his narrative history of the earth from formation to the present. Meissner never seems to be pronouncing from the lectern, but rather, seeks to convey his own curiosity about the subject. The author summarizes the evidence on plate tectonics concisely and also points out the latest modifications of tectonic theory as well as the sophisticated seismic techniques with which they are investigated. Clarity and accessibility make this an excellent addition to the science collection. Gilbert Taylor
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Review

From the reviews: |"[The Little Book of Planet Earth] provides critical insights into the nature of Earth's composition, our understanding of Earth's magnetic field, and plate tectonics." Science News "How did life on our planet evolve? How old is Earth? How was our solar system formed and, with it, our planet? These are big questions, but the answers are found in this small book that gives broad insights into earth science." Science News "An amazing introduction to what scientific research through the past centuries up to the modern day has learned about our planet." The Bookwatch "The book is a small miracle." New Scientist "The Little Book of Planet Earth describes the geological evolution of Earth from its formation. … In this concise and engaging little book, the author introduces lay readers to the key topics in modern earth and planetary science: the creation of Earth and its moon, the role of seismology in analyzing Earth’s structure, the formation of mountain ranges and basins, the significance of Earth’s magnetic field, and more." (Science in Africa, October, 2002) "The Little Book of Planet Earth by meteorologist and geophysicist Rolf Meissner is an amazing introduction to what scientific research through the past centuries up to the modern day has learned about our planet. From the origin of the solar system to plate tectonics to earth’s magnetic field and much more, chapters teach all about the Earth in straightforward, easy-to-understand language accessible to lay readers. Highly recommended for all readers … ." (Circulation, June, 2002) "This small but delightful book should interest anyone curious about the planet he or she lives on. … Meissner treats this material in an interesting and easy-to-read style. But he does much more – he also describes the formation of Earth and its development. … There are numerous illustrations and photographs throughout, along with a section on further reading. … Strongly recommended. General readers; lower- and upper-division undergraduates." (B. R. Parker, Choice, October, 2002) "It is an up-to-date account of great breakthroughs in the earth sciences during the second half of the 20th century, that were published in top journals. … A very interesting work that satisfies one’s taste for understanding the basics of the science his professional occupation is based upon." (Michiel Dusar, Geologica Belgica, Vol. 5 (1-2), 2002) "It’s a simple plan and excellently carried out, exploring early ideas about the origin of the Earth, then describing the Solar System and gradually narrowing the focus until reaching the core of the Earth itself. Meissner then retraces his path with fascinating explanations … . There are admirable illustrations, too. … the book is a small miracle." (Roy Herbert, New Scientist, May, 2002)

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 192 pages
• Publisher: Springer; 1 edition (March 15, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0387952586
• ISBN-13: 978-0387952581
• Product Dimensions: 7.3 x 5.3 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.1 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,907,666 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars The Little Book of Planet Earth, March 18, 2004

By 

K Scheffler (Canada) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Little Book of Planet Earth (Little Book Series) (Hardcover)

If you want a well-written, concise but accessable account of the formation and geological evolution of our planet, I would highly recommend this book. Without getting overly technical, it will really get you up to speed on the current understanding the Earth's history, and will leave you with a greater appreciation for the its and, therefore, our existence.

5.0 out of 5 stars Highly recommended for readers of all ages, June 6, 2002

By 

Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Little Book of Planet Earth (Little Book Series) (Hardcover)

The Little Book Of Planet Earth by meteorologist and geophysicist Rolf Meissner is an amazing introduction to what scientific research through the past centuries up to the modern day has learned about our planet. From the origin of the solar system to plate tectonics to earth's magnetic field and much more, chapters teach all about the Earth in straightforward, easy-to-understand language accessible to lay readers. Highly recommended for readers of all ages, The Little Book Of Planet Earth is enhanced lack-and-white photographs, diagrams, charts and more help bring to life an amazing wealth of information.