The AMS Weather Book: The Ultimate Guide to America's Weather

Only 12 pages in, I’m already fascinated by some of the info - such as a history of our understanding of rainbows - and confused or rolling my eyes at some of the illustration text.For example, cloud droplets less than 20 micrometers in diameter scatter all wavelengths of light (believable) and cloud droplets larger than 20 *millimeters* begin to absorb more light according to page 8. If water falling from a cloud is 20 mm (4/5”) in diameter, it’s not a droplet... it’s near-severe *hail*. On page 12, it is explained and illustrated that primary rainbows have red at the top and secondary rainbows have violet at the top... but the main illustration shows a primary rainbow... with violet at the top! Illustration hiccups like these undermine faith in the accuracy of the info in this book, even as it’s obvious that the author is extremely knowledgeable about the physics and history of meteorology. I expect I’ll continue to enjoy his writing while rolling my eyes at the illustration gaffes.

At last, a book on weather that is neither a textbook, academic tome, or overly simplified broad introduction. It is copiously illustrated, but it has a thorough text, very well-written, that is explaining more about weather to me than I thought I would ever learn. I have read three chapters so far and learned about winds, ocean currents, sun dogs, solar energy, tsunamis, and how tornadoes and hurricanes rip poorly constructed houses and buildings apart, plus a great deal more, with lots of fascinating sidebars. It is one of those books that will be over all too soon, but which I will enjoy returning to later. Very highly recommended.

I was looking to expand my current knowledge as a SKYWARN spotter and storm chaser with this guide. I learned quite a bit from this book so it was very helpful. It didn't get as much into specific severe storm dynamics as I would have liked to see but perhaps I just need a more focused weather book. I did feel the content jumped around a bit too much for my reading tastes and while I can understand recognizing some of the weather pioneers/figures in this country, it felt excessive at times. The diagrams were all pretty well done and easy to read. I'll keep this as a reference.

A nice hardbound book of coffee-table-book proportions that shows weather and weather systems dramatically. Not a text on meteorology, but helpful in learning about U.S. weather. It found a surprise market abroad, where people know of the violent propensities of so much American weather. I would think that middle-schoolers or older would enjoy it, too. Reasonable price. Well worth having, even though the text is going on ten years old. Would probably make a very good gift for a motivated pre-teen.

The Ultimate Guide to America's Weather is a great book. It's easy enough to read that you don't feel like you're struggling through high-level textbook jargon, but it's in-depth enough that you don't feel like you're getting the second-grade synopsis of important topics. The book has full color illustrations that really help you to understand the more complex atmospheric cycles. Plus, the chapters are only two to four pages on each topic. The brief topics, detailed discussion, and avoidance of the overly technical and confusing jargon make the book EXCELLENT for anyone looking to learn more about weather. Highly recommended!

As a retired NOAA meteorologist I consider this book excellent for the general public and a quick reference and teaching tool for scientists. The text is clear and many of the color graphics outstanding.The illustration of surface weather maps could be more detailed. The sections on tornadoes will need updating in a new edition because we are learning many new things about them.Produced by the professional American Meteorological Society, the book is authoritative.

I chose this book party because of author recognition, I knew this author would be thorough. It breaks down weather whys and why nots with beautiful pictures, graphs and charts. The terminology in the book stays within layman terms for the most part, so it's easy to understand. I would recommend this book to anyone from those people who take weather seriously to those who just who are curious. It's a good fit for anyone. Also a great coffee table book.

I can't say much about the book yet cuz I've just started reading it. But so far so good. I've been obsessed with weather all my life and this book is very easy to understand. Even after all these years I'm learning a lot. I'll try to update my review at a later date. Oh and don't be afraid to save some money and order it used. My book arrived in like new condition.