Dictionary of the Earth

Physical geography was always something of a mystery to me as a teenager, with cwms/corries far removed from daily experience in the Vale of York. I would certainly have benefited from this Dictionary of the Earth. Despite its compact size (it would fit into a largish pocket) it has clear colour diagrams, broad coverage (over 2000 entries) and far more detailed text than is usual from this publisher. Subjects range from the Age of the Earth and Earth in Space to Human Impact and Earth Science Pioneers. The arrangement is thematic with a detailed subject index, and there's a good explanation of how best to use it. The book is full to the brim with interesting snippets and definitions that inform and encourage dipping. The author's enthusiasm for his subject is infectious and now I not only understand why armchair-shaped hollows scraped out by ice were unfamiliar but can recognise them in their true setting.