Encyclopedia of the Earth: Oceans & Islands

I was actually going to give this book a 5 Star rating with the following criticisms but when I read through the review again, I just had to deduct one star. The problem I have is with the word "Encyclopedia" in the title - which I found somewhat misleading. An encyclopedia is either an extended and illustrated dictionary covering all topics (in which case it will run to several volumes) or the same approach given to a more limited topic. Either way, the format is always alphabetical. From an "Encyclopedia" of Oceans and Islands, therefore, I expected to find something about all the Oceans and all the Islands. OK, so the tiny - yet fantastic island of Makongai in Fiji (mentioned only because I once spent 3 weeks there), is not mentioned - but neither is Malta! Perhaps I am being overly picky-picky - perhaps not. Nevertheless, it is fair to say that without the word "Encyclopaedia" in the title, I would have had no hesitation in giving this book a full 5 star rating. This is a book which concentrates on the more tropical islands. Almost every aspect of those islands is covered in minute detail from a cast of contributors who would each walk lop-sided if they wore their qualifications on one sleeve. Furthermore, the photography and graphics are quite stunning. Encyclopaedia it is not - but otherwise a truly excellent book and well worth the purchase price. NM

This book is a great ocean book for anyone who loves ocean. Anyone who wants to learn about the tectonic plates, or different ways that an island nation grows, this book is good for it. Its and excellent research book. This book is awesome. It tells tyou the highest mountain, and the biggest mountain. This is an ocean type person's book.