Living with Earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest

I haven't seen any other book that approaches this one's broad coverage of the topic. There is an excellent presentation of basic principles of earthquakes and of the relevant geology of the Northwest. The NW's earthquake history is reviewed in detail. Our current risks are evaluated, and prevention is discussed. There is even a chapter on insurance and policy issues. Throughout, the wording is precise yet breezy, like a good college lecturer (the book grew out of a college course taught by the author).

I use this book in teaching a college introductory science class. It is clearly written and presents earthquakes from the unique perspective of the Pacific Northwest. There is an alternative introductory book by Bruce Bolt on earthquakes in general, and another with emphasis on California by Sue Hough. Each has its strengths - the Hough book is particularly well-written, the Bolt book has good pictures and illustrations and a dry wit, and this one builds upon the findings of the leading scholars of the Oregon-Washington region to show the big picture of science and government's role in hazard management. With a good index, list of regional earthquakes, and glossary, an attentive reader will gain an in-depth knowledge of some geophysics and its serious hazards for Cascadia.

A book that will hopefully wake people up who live here in the NW and make them realize that we are at just as much risk for earthquakes as california. I was a 1 year old and my parents recall their terror of ensuring my safety as well as their own during the 1965 quake that hit Wa state measuring over a 7. We should all take heed to the words written and secure ourselves by having a 3 day supply of food and water, knowing what the energency response of our childrens's schools are. Because the quake that hit this summer is just a prelude to the massive one that will hit.

The book is great for getting people aware that the PNW also has a fault line. And Mt. Rainier is more than a mountain. But he says it not to scare you. It educates you in a relaxing manner. This should be mandatory reading for grades 9-12. Highly recommend it!!!