Promotions - Choice's Outstanding Academic Titles 2019 -

Stevenson (independent scholar) has crafted a superb amalgamation of decades of data and interpretations of international research, including his own, regarding complex geologic processes. The importance of granite and related rocks (granitoids) in the formation of continents and subsequent influence on continental plate movements, weather, climate, and evolution of life are explored along with their intimate association with the genesis of many metal deposits of high economic value. Included are in-depth discussions of the origin of granitoids by partial melting of mantle and ocean floor rock, partial and complete melting of sedimentary and previously formed felsic igneous rocks, and local assimilation of host units bordering intrusive melts. Stevenson's review of the expansion and destruction of major continental masses through time is impressive, as is his projection of potential future plate tectonic events and related igneous activity based on the work of many qualified research scientists. The structures of other planetary bodies within Earth's solar system and the universe are discussed, especially with respect to the potential habitability of those bodies and the linking of planetary geology with biological evolution. This outstanding book is recommended for a wide range of upper-level Earth science students and practicing professionals.Summing Up: Highly recommended. Advanced undergraduates through faculty and professionals.

Although the title of this book specifies 25 dinosaur discoveries, that figure can probably be multiplied by ten, because for every dinosaur Prothero (California State Polytechnic Univ., Pomona) highlights, he describes oodles more. In addition, the reader will learn about the history of vertebrate paleontology (Prothero is research associate in vertebrate paleontology, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County) thanks to biographical information about the (small number of) practitioners who discovered these creatures. Each of the 25 chapters focuses on a particular episode of dinosaur discovery, starting with the discovery of Megalosaurus in England and ending with Triceratopsian dinosaurs in North America. The book's arrangement is somewhat, but not strictly, chronological. Each chapter is illustrated with black-and-white photos or diagrams and concludes with a bibliography. Prothero indicates the meaning of the genus and species names and how to pronounce them--information readers will find of great value--and provides details about dinosaur size, biology, and ecology. In passing one also learns the history of the museums that have exhibited the dinosaurs. The book concludes with a viable index. Prothero has written other "25" titles, e.g., Story of the Earth in 25 Rocks (CH, Aug'18, 55-4480). This is a great book for folks interested in dinosaurs, from high schoolers through adult readers.Summing Up: Essential. Lower-division undergraduates through faculty; general readers.