The Granite Landscape: A Natural History of America's Mountain Domes, from Acadia to Yosemite

This book was written by a friend of mine and I wanted a nice copy. This copy was in virtually new condition, better than expected. Great deal and good delivery.

This book is a very informative guide to the wonders of granite mountain tops in the continental United States. It begins with a general introduction to the science of granite domes, how they are were formed in geological time and shaped by glaciers, and the resulting unique ecology and flora. Then Wessels takes us on a tour of the major granite dome peaks of the US, from Acadia National Park in Maine, west to Yosemite. Each chapter in this second section is both travelogue of a climbing adventure Wessels took on the mountain, and nature guide, describing ecological aspects of the mountain. At the end of the book are appendices that provide a more detailed look at the geologic time line of granite peaks, a list of plants that may be found on American granite peaks, a glossary, a selected biography for further reading, and an index. The book is amply illustrated with black and white photographs by Wessels and illustrations by Brian Cohen. The book is quite enjoyable as well as informative. I found the introductory chapters on geology particularly interesting, as they explain the nature of granite deposits and how granite is different from other types of rocks. Most important, reading the book makes me want to strap on my hiking boots and get out and climb so that I can experience these wonders for myself!

First off, I loved this book. I know some will poo poo this book for not being a hardcore geology book, but thats what makes it so good. Mr. Wessells gives a very good geology course limited to the granite outcroppings in the U.S. and he does it so that is is very interesting. At times I felt like I was right there at his side as he described the landscape he was in. I had to limit myself to a chapter a day, though I cheated a couple of times, I could have read it in one sitting. I sure wish my geo classes in college had been this interesting. Brian Cohen's illustrations are fantastic as well.My only disappointment was the author's photographs, though that can be forgiven fro writing such a good book. It is now a permanent part of my library.