The first edition of "Essentials of Geology"--an abridged version of "Earth: Portrait of a Planet" for courses that require a shorter book--quickly became the bestseller in its market on the strength of the text's seamless integration of traditional geological concepts with the most recent theoretical advances in geology, including the theories of plate tectonics and earth systems science. Retaining the core strengths of the first edition, the second edition has been meticulously revised, adding engaging new material and learning tools. The text's popular art program has been significantly expanded, including new satellite photographs and eighteen new "What a Geologist Sees" illustrations. Additionally, the second edition features the most effective and current multimedia tools available for instructors and students.

This textbook offers students a highly accessible introduction to the study of geology. Fundamental concepts from the fields of plate tectonics and Earth systems science are integrated throughout the text. The second edition features new material on comparative planetary geology. The volume is lavishly illustrated with color drawings, maps, and photographs. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Based on the best-selling Earth: Portrait of a Planet, Essentials of Geology offers the same engaging writing, spectacular artwork, and helpful pedagogy as the parent text in a more concise format. This accessible introduction integrates traditional geologic concepts with the most recent theoretical advances, among them theories of plate tectonics and Earth systems science. The Second Edition has been carefully updated, including coverage of recent events such as Hurricane Katrina, and offers unparalleled multimedia tools for instructors and students.

Stephen Marshak is Professor of Geology and Head of the Department of Geology at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. He holds a Ph.D. from Columbia University, an M.S. from the University of Arizona, and a B.A. from Cornell University. He has served as Chair of the Division of Structural Geology and Tectonics of the Geological Society of America. Dr. Marshak has written numerous research articles on topics in structural geology and tectonics, and has authored or co-authored three other books: Basic Methods of Structural Geology; Earth Structure; and Earth: Portrait of a Planet.