Under The Microscope

THE REED FIELD GUIDE TO NEW ZEALAND GEOLOGY by
Jocelyn Thornton; Reed Books, 1995;226 pp; $34.95

Reviewed by Ros Davis

It could be said that "old geographers never die, they just bury themselves under an ever-increasing avalanche of books" -- well that is the case with me anyway.

This Field Guide is a welcome addition to my library. Filled with detailed descriptions of the different geological structures and clearly illustrated with photographs and geological maps of New Zealand localities, it is a useful reference text for anyone studying geology or physical geography, or with an interest in these subjects.

The book is well set out with an introduction to different types of rock followed by detailed descriptions of the various rock structures throughout New Zealand. There is a page of information on further reading at the back of the book, and full references are given for the illustrations used.

An index in the back makes finding information about a particular area or rock structure easy which means this book is great for dipping into. However, the very readable style and layout makes it worth sitting down with for a longer look.

Despite the book being called a "field guide" I would be reluctant to carry it around with me on a field trip or tramp. I would hate it to get dirty and it is a reasonable size and weight, even in paperback. However, I would definitely refer to it before going on the trip and check out my notes on my return.