This book comprehensively and competently conveys all the essential foundations for a successful study of geography: After a general introduction, the atmosphere and its internal and external processes are presented; geomorphology is included, as well as a detailed overview of soil geography. As a common thread throughout the book, the authors repeatedly establish the relationship between humans and the planet Earth. Numerous background information from current research projects, presented in feature boxes on the topic of "Humans and the Environment," serve this goal. The book offers an excellent illustration program that has been further refined over nine editions, featuring clear graphics and photos. About the authors: Tom L. McKnight was a Professor of Geography at the University of California, Los Angeles, from 1956 to 1993. Darrel Hess holds the chair.