California Rocks!: A Guide To Geologic Sites in the Golden State

Great little book to explain the geology on the side of the road and it points outs other geological points of interest for one to visit.

Loaded with information!

A well laid out, enjoyable reference, but quite basic on the science. Would use as a starting point to review possible destinations and get a general overview of what to expect.If you would like a bit more in-depth information, I would recommend the "Roadside Geology" series (eg. Roadside Geology of Northern California", etc.)PROs:Attractive layout.Gorgeous color photographs (1, 2,or 3 photos for each destination).Good (basic) introductory info on the geology of California and the various regions of California. Perfect for a family road trip.Beautiful satellite intro maps and maps for each region. Adequate road maps to help locate (generally) most destinations.Good Glossary in the back (though it would have been great to have an illustrated Glossary for at least some of the words (ex. I don't think a layperson would read the definition of a "reverse fault" and fully understand it, while a small line illustration showing a reverse fault would explain it better.)CONs:Geologic science is not very detailed.Relatively few destinations(65)for a state as large, diverse, and geologically interesting as California.

This book covers a handful of sites in California with good geology giving a description of the area and some pictures. I think of the entries as teaser trailers for the sites, a way to entice you to go and actually see the place. Fun directional guide if you are unsure of where to begin in sightseeing throughout the state.

Did not follow any method of plotting a course. Jumped from North to desert to coast then mountains and never actually gave any directions for finding anything!!

This book is perfect for quick jaunts. There are 65 sites, each of which has 1 page with a 2-3 paragraph description, photos of major features, and a map if it is relevant. I would definitely take this with me, or at least review it before I visit these places.

This is a very enjoyable book describing geologically interesting places in California. It includes a wide variety of destinations but does not allocate much space to travel information - basic maps and website listings are about it. This turns out to be a wise decision since it leaves more space for striking color photographs. The quality of the photography is what leads me to rate it at five stars. It is suitable for science-minded middle school and high school kids as well as anyone who is interested in California's geology and would like to get outdoors and see it in action.

a wonderful beginners book, not too much technical information, just enough to whet your whistle and get you or your kids started in geology, plus sometimes adding another dimension to your camping experience is a welcome one.