Glaciers /

Hambrey (Univ. of Wales, Aberystwyth) and Alean (Kantonsschule Zurcher Unterland, Switzerland) claim that "Glaciers are one of the most beautiful and fascinating elements of nature." Their book, correspondingly, is a tour de force: a most beautiful and comprehensive collection of color photographs with a riveting text of superb clarity, all in book form. It is written for the intelligent public, although it is vital reading for university undergraduate and graduate students alike. It should become a standard resource for all professional natural scientists. It is an extensively rewritten and rephotographed new edition (1st ed., CH, Dec'92, 30-2089). Many of the photographs rank as works of art while retaining scientific precision. There are 16 chapters ranging over the entire discipline, here broadened to include associated landforms, wildlife, benefits, and hazards. Current impacts of global change are examined. Good use is made of clear line drawings, maps, and satellite images. There are no academic-style citations, thereby rendering the text more lucid. The book includes a valuable select bibliography and an excellent glossary and location and subject index. It makes a landmark contribution to natural science and its interplay with real world issues. ^BSumming Up: Highly recommended. All levels. J. D. Ives Carleton University