Earth Sciences for Students (The Macmillan Science Library for Students)

Describes various earth sciences, their history, employment opportunities, and notable scientists of the past.

Grade 7 Up-Based on Macmillan's Encyclopedia of Earth Science (1996; o.p.), this handsome, authoritative resource covers the physics, chemistry, and biology of Earth and space. The alphabetically arranged articles begin with brief definitions, explain basic concepts, outline natural processes, and conclude with cross-references to other articles. Coverage includes geological structure and landforms, oceanography, atmospheric sciences, biology and paleontology, and astronomy, with separate articles on careers in these and related fields. The articles on controversial topics, such as the causes of global warming, are balanced but point to scientific consensus. The set provides just enough detail to satisfy the interest of serious students while providing colorful pictures and accounts of interesting personalities to attract browsers. Most entries are illustrated with one or two full-color or black-and-white photographs or diagrams with informative captions. Although the thematic bibliography in the last volume lists useful readings, the articles do not guide readers to it, weakening the usefulness of the set. The UXL Encyclopedia of Science (1997) covers some of the same topics in comparable detail, but lacks the color photos. The bibliography includes long-lived Web sites and CD-ROMs as well as books. Earth Sciences would be well used in schools with strong science programs.
Jonathan Betz-Zall, Sno-Isle Regional Library System, Edmonds, WA
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