This is the sixth edition of a standard text on the characteristics, distribution and formation of soil and the way pedologists in the United States have organised that knowledge within a formal framework. It begins with history and general concepts (Chapter 1) and follows with chapters on the morphology and composition of soil, soil materials and weathering and the soil-forming factors and processes. Chapter 6 is on modern systems of soil classification and Chapter 7 on the American system. If you persevere through these jargon-packed chapters, you reach more digestible stuff.

Chapters 8 to 19 describe the 12 main classes of soil recognised in the American system. Each begins by summarising the principal characteristics, the distinguishing features and the environments in which the class occurs, and it end with a restatement in somewhat different style. In between the setting is expanded, and is followed by an account of the processes of formation, the uses to which the soil is put and its productivity and a section on the formal subdivisions. A centre spread of colour plates illustrates most of the classes. These chapters are clear, comprehensive yet succinct.

The book as a whole conveys a largely American view in language redolent of the 1960s and 1970s. It lists more than 1500 references, most by American authors in American journals, reports and books, and many of which are also from the 1960s and 1970s and earlier and no longer of consequence. The information is sound. It is a pity that the authors have not broadened the coverage and modernised the presentation in this new edition to give the book wider appeal.