Geology and Landscapes of Scotland - 2nd Edition by Con Gillen (Paperback)

About the Book

A comprehensive treatment of the glorious geology and scenery of Scotland. Profusely illustrated with photographs and maps, this is the complete account for the many for whom the geology and scenery of Scotland are special.

Book Synopsis

The six hundred miles between the northernmost Shetland island and the Mull of Galloway in the South of Scotland contain some of the most interesting geology and most varied landscapes in Europe. This variety was the inspiration for a tradition of geological investigation that stretches back to the earliest earth scientists. The origins of the Scotland that we know today lie in five quite distinct geological histories.

The Geology and landscapes of Scotland takes the reader on a tour of each of these regions in turn, starting with the Northwest Highlands and Outer Hebrides, which contain some of the oldest rocks on Earth, through the mountain terrains of the Highlands and Uplands to the Lowlands and then the fringes of the North Sea. A section describes the volcanic provinces of Scotland; another deals with the effects of the Ice Ages while a final section looks at Scotland's natural resources.

Of equal appeal to the professional geologist seeking a broad overview of a much-studied terrain and a resource for the resident, visitor, walker, climber or angler who wants to understand the origins of the landforms they observe, Geology and landscapes of Scotland has proved itself as a reliable guide. In this thoroughly revised edition the many illustrations are presented in colour.

Review Quotes

'Geology and landscapes of Scotland by Con Gillen is an excellent overview of the geology of Scotland. We are delighted to see the 2nd edition published by Dunedin, updated in a larger size with full colour photos.' http: //www.scottishgeology.com

'the book is a reasonably comprehensive and generally excellent account of Scotland's geodiversity, explaining and promoting both its rich geology and varied scenery and landforms. It is written for and should appeal to a wide audience and, given my previous ignorance of the modern interpretation of the Hebridean Volcanoes (Chapter 7), is easily readable and enjoyable. This is probably not surprising since the author has led or taken part in many field trips across Scotland and the surrounding islands capturing the essence of these in photographs. Much of his career has been focussed on introducing geology to those with little knowledge of the subject. In this book he uses his experiences in life-long-learning and educating tourist guides to show why Scottish landscapes are what they are and why they are so much loved by us residents and our visitors alike. His narrative also makes the reader aware of the historical beginnings of the science of geology in the late 18th century with James Hutton, and other later historic figures such as Ben Peach and John Horne. It also shows how Scotland's geodiversity continues to be at the heart of modern research as it spreads from the detail contained in the basic topics of geology, geomorphology etc. into the modern cross-discipline (environmental) themes relating to climate change, changing sea levels and the low carbon economy. I have no hesitation in recommending a trip to the bookshop for this one...'
The Edinburgh Geologist

About the Author

Con Gillen is an experienced geologist, now with the University of Edinburgh, who has led many field trips across the country. Much of his teaching has been devoted to introducing geology to those new to the subject.