*Expanded to include Grand Staircase/Escalante, Vermilion Cliffs, Canyons of the Ancients, Dinosaur, and Hovenweep National Monuments
*Color photo insert
*Many sights accessible by car

From the sheer-walled magnificence of Zion to the breathtaking intricacy of Bryce Canyon's sculptured turrets; from the "Grand Staircase" of the Vermilion Cliffs, and Pink Cliffs in southern Utah to the volcanic lavas of Sunset Crater: two geologists describe the star attractions of 24 national parks and monuments. New sidebars provide closer looks at specific details such as the large numbers of dinosaur footprints in and around Arches National Park and geology's profound effect on ancient Pueblo peoples and how they lived.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS (Average Customer Rating: 4.0 based on 1 review)

A Good Introduction to a Complex Topic

Halka Chronic's "Pages of Stone" is a well-written introduction to the geology of the Colorado Plateau. Her book, following a general introduction to the geological formation processes of the plateau landscapes, is organized around the numerous national parks and monuments in this remarkable area. These include the biggies, like the Grand Canyon, Bryce, and Mesa Verde, as well as lesser known locations like Sunset Crater, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, and Wupatki. Each park and monument is treated with a detailed description of its principal geological features, how these features fit into the overall geology of the plateau, and is illustrated with black and white photographs (there are a number of color photos in a center insert). I have only one complaint about Chronic's book, but it was enough to knock off a star from what could be a five-star volume. That's the lack of detailed park maps that would make it easier to locate some the places that she discusses. I have an earlier edition of this book, so if this has been corrected in this latest edition, then simply add a star to my review. All in all, this book, and Chronic's Roadside Geology series, are a good way for the layperson to familiarize themselves with one of the truely great American regions.
July 06, 2004

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