The Geology of Southern Vancouver Island: A Field Guide

Joseph Leydon teaches geography at the University of Toronto.

This book, intended for travelers unfamiliar with the geology of
southern Vancouver Island, is divided into two sections. The first
outlines the origin and geological evolution of the island and includes
discussions on mining and the nature and significance of earthquakes.
The second section, the field guide proper, is divided into 20 site
descriptions that include information on the surrounding landscape and
specific geological features. There are copious maps, illustrations, and
photographs that facilitate understanding of the discussion. A glossary
provides definitions of the geological terminology, and there are useful
maps and information on how to reach each site.

There are a number of organizational problems in this book. For
example, the portion of the text devoted to mining is puzzling. It
awkwardly separates the discussion on fault systems and earthquakes, is
entirely descriptive, and seems irrelevant. The foreword refers readers
to the inside of the front cover for a geological time scale and a
column illustrating the geological succession and ages of the rock
formations that occur on the island; however, this information appears
on p. 21. Finally, there could be greater integration of text and
illustrations. Some illustrations do not appear on the same page as the
textual discussion, and many of the photographs are of poor quality,
making it difficult to identify the geological feature under discussion.

Despite these flaws, the field guide is a valuable source. The sites
described are accessible, and many are located in public parks and
beaches. While the guide will be especially useful for teachers who are
planning field trips, the casual traveler with an interest in the island
will also find it valuable.