The Edge of Fire: Volcano and Earthquake Country in Western north America and Hawaii

Photographs augment this study of the history, lore, and science of earthquakes and volcanoes which specifically examines the tumultuous geological story of the west coast of Central and North America

No natural phenomena inspire such awe as do earthquakes and volcanoes. Photojournalist Wenkam takes us on a dramatic tour of the geologically unstable Pacific Coast, Central America to Alaska, and to the volcanically active islands of Hawaii. He explains the basic geology of both areas and points out current "hot spots" that could be a threat to modern communities. He discusses earthquake disaster planning in Southern California and the probabilities of a major earthquake in the near future. He recounts his experiences photographing two volcanoes in Hawaii as they erupted (he was just ahead of the molten lava). We follow the famous San Andreas fault along the Pacific Coast and learn about lesser faults in the area. Wenkam traces evidence of seismic and volcanic activity inlandYellowstone, the Tetons, Cascades, Sierra Nevada. His spectacular photographs complement the text, emphasizing these powerful forces of nature. First serial to California magazine; Natural Science Book Club main selection; Nature Book Society alternate.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.