Glaciers (ISBN 0521828082)

Book Description:
Glaciers are among the most beautiful natural wonders on Earth, today found on every continent. This book describes how glaciers grow and decay, how they move, and how they influence us. Glacier ice has shaped the landscape over millions of years. Glacier meltwater drives turbines and irrigates deserts, and yields mineral-rich soils. However, glaciers also threaten human property and life. Our future is indirectly bound up with the fate of glaciers and their influence on global climate and sea level. A lively text is supported by over 200 stunning photographs.

Good overview with great photos:
This lavishly illustrated book provides a relatively non-technical textbook-like survey of worldwide glacial phenomenon. Besides covering the typical geologic and climate aspects of the subject there are chapters about wildlife and human interaction with glaciers, both hazards and benefits. Note that the British and Swiss authors' perspective is Euro-centric with very sparse coverage of the American West. For instance, Mt. Rainier, the most extensive glacial system in the Lower 48 gets only two small mentions. There are dozens of outstanding color photographs but relatively few maps or exhibits of statistical information. There's a 14-page glossary that will prove useful as a reference but the bibliography is quite sparse and most of the entries are also textbooks as opposed to sources of more in-depth coverage. Recommended as an introduction to those wanting a survey glacial phenomenon or as a refresher for people who have not studied the topic in a long while. Those who have a solid basic knowledge of glaciers or want to focus on American glaciers should look elsewhere.