This publication presents description of approximately 450 rock types that is supported by high-quality photographs. This issue, the fourth one, is the first in English following on from previous German language versions. It is long overdue as it provides a comprehensive yet accessible description of petrology in a well-structured single volume. The book represents an identification text as well as a reference tome for a broad earth science audience.

The work is presented in three sections. The first a general introduction to the principal rock groups (igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic). A description of the general processes in the context of plate tectonics is provided and followed by introductory sections on rock-forming minerals and structure of the Earth and petrology.

The second section deals with classification of the rock groups and their formation. These are provided systematically as igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rock groups. This section is again well illustrated by photographs and conceptual images. These show great depth and coverage across all rock groups and are explained in detail.

The third section and perhaps the main focus of the book is a detailed description of rock types. This contain information on classification, common rock forming mineral constituents, characteristic features and genesis. The book has a colour code for different rock groups enabling rapid searches of the information. Classic and less well-known examples of rock types and their localities are included. Rare rock types are also included and there are also coverage of meteorites and useful tables of rock forming mineral properties and rock group identification chats.

This book is excellent, and the authors should be commended for a well-conceived, well executed product that I am sure will appeal to a wide readership from novice to those highly experienced. Equally useful in the field, laboratory or for study this publication manages to be useful as both a reference work and an identification book.