Customer Reviews
Illuminating - By: C. Lynch, 24 Feb 2007 
This is the most accessible third level text book on vulcanism that I have read. It is scholarly & illuminating but infused with some wit even when dealing with geohazards! Aimed at the student of geology, it is nonetheless an accessible read for the enthusiastic amateur & I would highly recommend it.
Probably the best textbook I've ever read. - By: J. P. Sykes, 26 Jan 2007 Why can't all textbooks be like this? Peter Francis (and Clive Oppenheimer) have taken a slightly more relaxed approach to their textbook, making it a little more personal, with the odd glib opinion or personal remark on taste, which rather than annoying you makes the book instantly more readable, as you can relate to the authors & be transported into their exciting world. Despite the relaxed approach the book is detailed accurate & up-to-date regards the subject. I read this textbook from cover to cover whilst revising for my exams on the subject & for once really enjoyed my revision. If it the book was a little smaller I would even read it on the bus!!!
An excellent reference work - By: Me, 07 Jan 2005 This book provides an excellent introduction to the study of volcanoes, both on Earth &in the Solar Systemin general, which is easily accessible to an interested amateur or an undergraduatein the early stages of their degree (it was recommended reading for several of my first year courses as an undergrad geologist). The late Professor Francis produced a work that is both informative & entertaining, whilst at no time trivialising the subject matterin hand. Pertinent examples & analogies are provided to clarify & illuminate rather than to dumb-down - a distinction sadly lacking from many other volumes covering similar topics. For a more comprehensive coverage of the topic, I would recommend referring to this book alongside either Igneous Petrology by Anthony Hall or Igneous Petrogenesis by Marge Wilson.
The ideal companion for any volcano enthusiast - By: , 13 Dec 2004 This book is the easiest 'textbook' I have ever read. It is informative & scientific whilst being succinct, educational & entertaining. Francis has an excellent, friendly writing style & the delight & passion he has for the subject matter is plain to see. This book is a must-have for wannabe volcanologists & for anyone with an interestin natural hazards.
A good flowing style, but avoiding trivia. - By: , 22 Nov 2001 This was a bookin a long list of preparatory recommended reading for a second level Open University course.
The style of writing is excellent. The content follows naturally from topic to topic. The level of detailis suitable for preparation for a second level University course. It would also be excellent reading for anyone with a general interestin matters scientific. The range of topics is wide & interesting.
