Bretz's Flood: The Remarkable Story of a Rebel Geologist and the World's Greatest Flood

Superb narrative about a perceptive and diligent geologist

Having seen a fascinating PBS program several years ago about the cataclysmic glacial Lake Missoula floods that shaped the so-called scabland landscape of eastern and central Washington State, I was excited when I found out that this book had been written. Soennichsen's book is first-rate, written in a readable style that will appeal to science and general non-fiction buffs alike. Not being a geologist myself, I especially liked the author's technique of quoting a descriptive scientific passage and then stepping back to explain that concept with greater clarity so that any reader could understand it. Soennichsen's own map, drawings, and photographs are timely and illustrative as well. In the end, the story is driven by J(no period!) Harlen Bretz himself. Bretz's quirky personality and his dogged pursuit of scientific truth in the face of more conservative geologic opinions make this book not only an interesting biography but a detective story of sorts, too. The appeal of Soennichsen's book should not be relegated to those who live in the Pacific Northwest. The author, by deftly studying and researching his subject, has written a book with universal appeal that shows one man's tenacity, despite great odds. I highly recommend this book!

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