The Trilobite Collector's Guide is a no-nonsense guide curated and written by paleontology field associate and heavy metal maven (yep) Andy Secher. Due out 23rd Jan 2024 from the Columbia University Press, it's 472 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.
This is a true guide built with collectors and rockhounds in mind. It's full of clear photos and an impressive amount of valuation and origin/location information for specific specimens. There -is- a fair amount of paleohistory and background biology/nomenclature, but the true focus of the book is where to find, how to acquire, and how to build a well curated collection of trilobites. Admittedly niche, but really cool.
The books sections are arranged logically and accessibly: top collecting locations for different periods and species trilobites, world class fossil/rock shows (and how to get there and what to expect), history and development of the hobby, morphology, collecting tips, and a lot LOT more. No minutiae is too obscure, and it's a *big* book. Impressively, like most really enthusiastic aficionados, Mr. Secher is more than happy to share his tips, tricks, and fascination with these prehistoric creatures. He's very knowledgeable and his writing style is inclusive and friendly. Despite being a very esoteric hobby, his language is layman accessible and fun to read.
The photography throughout is very clear. The author/publisher have also included a glossary and index. Nomenclature throughout is correct at the time of publication and to international zoological standards.
Five stars. This is a guide which will go into multiple editions before ever being superseded. It would make a superlative choice for public or post-secondary library acquisition, home use, and professional reference.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
No comments:
Post a Comment