Book Review: Ring of Fire: An Encyclopedia of the Pacific Rim’s Earthquakes, Tsunamis, and Volcanoes

Abstract

This work seems to be unique, or close to it, in its scope. The author discusses geological phenomena in the Pacific region from “historical, geographical, and geological perspectives” (xv) with an emphasis on earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanoes. Topics range from as overarching as plate tectonics to narrower but still broadly applicable topics such as definitions of hazard versus risk to specific sites and events. She uses “important stories” (xv) and myths to add interest. Because of all of the processes, events, and consequences it drives, the author notes that “the strongest theme presented herein is plate tectonics” (xvii).