Volcanology

Geology students as well as amateur geologists will enjoy this account of volcanoes, one made topical by continued references to historic eruptions and sites, and well illustrated in b&w (there are also some color plates). The text, which was translated from the French original published in 1998, examines the origins and mechanisms of volcanoes, their impact on humans and the environment, their production of mineral resources, and their role in shaping the Earth and other planets. McBirney is emeritus at the U. of Oregon, Eugene; Bardintzeff teaches at the U. of Paris at Orsay. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)