In-depth descriptions of famous landforms frame sophisticated discussions of geologic history, processes, and theories. The case study format is detailed and informative, but the complex terminology and concepts may be difficult for all but the most advanced students to comprehend, particularly in Canyons. Each book's black-and-white illustrations don't do justice to the magnificent landforms but are supplemented by one eight-page color insert. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

Part of a series that also includes Lakes, Caves, and Deserts, these books use the same format with an opening chapter on the origin of a landform, followed by nine succeeding chapters, each devoted to one example of the landform. American canyons include those in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, California, and Oregon as well as canyons and gorges in Australia, China, Africa, and Europe. The nine waterfalls include falls at Yosemite, Niagara, Cumberland, and Multnomah in North America, with falls in South America, Asia, Africa, Europe, and the South Pacific also mentioned. Both volumes are packed with facts and statistics. Each chapter describes the geological processes that shaped the landform, current field studies at that location, and points of interest nearby. Geological processes, the flora and fauna, historical events, and ecological concerns are discussed. The portion on Victoria Falls includes the story of David Livingstone, and the Fish River Canyon chapter describes the Gondwana supercontinent. Waterfalls has livelier text, with less technical detail than Canyons, and will hold the interest of more students. Illustrations include helpful diagrams and maps, but the photographs are rather unexciting. Most youth will pass on these books unless they have a particular interest in a specific location. But the books will provide good supplements for instruction in the earth sciences and geography, particularly if a library is located near one of the featured examples.-Marilyn Brien.