Customer Reviews

Planet Earth: Cosmology, Geology, and the Evolution of Life and Environment

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At this point in history, I teach a college preparatory course in earth science to 9th graders in northern Orange County, California. I don't have my MS [didn't finish my research or write my thesis], so I won't be teaching a basic earth science course at a junior college anytime soon. And even if the College Board okays an AP Geology course, I doubt this book will wind up on the approved text list. However, I can dream. If I could teach the senior high school level or freshman junior college level earth science course of my dreams, Planet Earth by Cesare Emiliani would be my text. This is a physical geology/earth science/earth system science book for smart students. Emiliani pulls no punches, includes lots of equations, asks open-ended questions and shows an excellent wit. All the pictures/drawings/diagrams are in black and white, so if you've got students who need lots of Kodachrome to excite them, this isn't the text for you. It's a quirky, unique text. It's not like any of the other basic earth science texts out there and bears the personal touches of its author. I read it for fun and inspiration and would definitely recommend it for the interested nonscientist. I know it's a paperback, but it is worth every penny you pay for it. Get a copy for your reference shelf today! And maybe you'll teach my dream course before I do.

This book is so great, I read it front to back. It is very understandable, while at the same time relating the topics to basic physical or chemical properties of the elements around us. He will tangent into a different 'field of study' in order to explain why something exists or came to be. Great book. It is also a good reference for all kinds of physical, chemical, geological, biologic knowns/definitions.

It's set chronologically from the beginning of the Earth till modern day. All the while explaining Earth/life processes. Lots of diagrams, tables, and illustrations.

This would be a great classroom book as well.