Volcanoes : global perspectives /

Volcanoes by Lockwood (Geohazards Consultants International; formerly, USGS) and Hazlett (Pomona College) is the latest comprehensive book related to the field of volcanology to appear during the last 40 years. Indeed, it ranks at the top for its balanced worldwide subject coverage, beautiful formatting, numerous well-captioned photos and instructive interpretive artwork, and extensive references (more than 800). The book is divided into five parts. The first part introduces the field and includes historical information and a discussion of volcanology vocabulary. Part 2 covers plate tectonics and magmatism, magma, and the causes of eruptions. A description of eruption types, flows and explosive products, and large-scale explosive eruptions follows in the next section. Part 4 explores volcanic landforms, both constructional and negative, and processes and products. The final section, "Humanistic Volcanology," covers climate-related topics; the risks and hazards of volcanoes; and economics, which includes discussions of energy and ores. Each chapter contains a general, concise bibliography and excellent study and discussion questions, an outstanding feature for academic coursework. An appendix with a list of major volcanoes worldwide and accompanying maps is a valuable addition. This attractive work should be on the shelves of all geologists, geographers, and environmentalists. Summing Up: Essential. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals; general readers. T. L. T. Grose emeritus, Colorado School of Mines