The Grand Canyon, Monument to an Ancient Earth: Can Noah's Flood Explain the Grand Canyon?

Before the 19th century, most people believed that the fossil bearing layers of rock found across the earth were laid down by Noah's flood. But by the mid-Nineteenth century (even before Darwin) geologists—many of whom were Christians—concluded that these sedimentary layers were deposited in multiple environments over millions of years.This later became a sticking point for some Christians and a small group of Christian "flood geologists" who continue to insist that the earth is only 6000 yrs old. The current volume addresses the geological question by examining the Grand Canyon which is often touted as a model of flood geology by young earth creationists.Written by 11 scientists, this book contains exquisite pictures and details on the formation of sedimentary rocks, folding and faulting of rocks, erosion and deposition, radiometric dating, and fossils. The authors systematically weave this information together to explain the formation and age of the canyon, while also demonstrating the futility and lack of coherence of the single flood hypothesis.As a science teacher I believe that this book makes an excellent teaching resource, not only on the topic of flood geology, but on the science of geology (especially as it relates to sedimentary formations) and the formation of the Grand Canyon.Also see my remarks in the comments below.

When we first met the Hills, they had been members of a church that had begun accepting the YEC teaching. They were torn between the simple facts of what they knew as scientists and told that to be Bible believing Christians they must accept the opposite in their faith. In other words, they must leave their brains out of their faith in the Bible, and their trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. As I recall, we were teaching "Genesis", and we discovered that the Bible made no such claims as were being preached by Henry Morris, etc. In the years since, we have observed the Hills "up close" and shared many times the struggles related to sharing the Gospel with men and women of science, with a "second front" being fought from the side with the YEC movement. A few years ago, Carol told us of her project of writing this book. I've read some of her technical papers concerning caves and geology, and struggled with some of the terms, but was greatly educated by her knowledge.Now, having read this masterpiece, I'm greatly impressed with the thoroughness of her work, and the work of the other authors throughout. It is very readable with easy to verify facts and illustrations. The photography is first rate, showing the beauty of the canyon while providing understanding to the evidence. Unlike what I have encountered with those of the differing views, there are no attacks and no name calling. (And I have personally attended and "endured" many hours in silence while listening to lectures from the opposite side . . . and discovered no humor when attempts were made to be at least friendly and cordial.)Many years ago, our family attended lectures at a local church given by Henry Morris expounding on his views of the flood . . . let's just say that the evidence did not then, nor now, support Morris' teaching. This book clarifies the YEC views and puts each to the test of the demonstrable facts, in word, in illustration, and photograph, without being unkind nor insulting.Recently, I purchased a second copy to loan out, not willing to lose our autographed gift copy. The first loan is to a friend that works as a researcher for the Park Service, and when offered, he immediately borrowed my second copy without hesitation. I'm anxious to hear his comments when he returns from a trip.

This book came recommended by a friend and I purchased it soon after it was released. I didn't know what to expect other than that it was written by a Christian author and was described as being beautifully illustrated. What a surprise to find that it was written by no fewer than 13 geologists and other scientists, most of whom are Christian (like me)! I was blown away after reading their bios. These are some real heavy hitters in geology and many of them are members of Christian scientific organizations (not "Christian science", but rather organizations of professional scientists who are professing Christians).I love to read about science, and it's been a while since I've had the pleasure of reading a general-interest science book that's so richly illustrated without also being dumbed down. The photos and illustrations are well-matched, and they add clarity, rather than being chosen as filler. My reaction after reading this book is that the authors shared a common purpose to produce a work of the utmost quality. The book is written at a reading level of early high school, but I know many younger students who would devour this book, as the illustrations make it very approachable for just about any age group.The book opens with a foreward giving a brief history of the discovery and exploration of the Grand Canyon and of geology as a science. Did you know that the very first geologists were Christians who were seeking evidence of Noah's flood?The main part of the book is divided into five sections. Each section is comprised of two to eight articles written by pairs of authors with expertise in the area being addressed. The sections are:1. Two Views. Here the authors describe, in fair terms, the tenets of "flood geology" -- the idea that most of the rock layers we see on Earth, including those in the Grand Canyon, were laid down during various phases of Noah's flood. They follow this up with the basics of modern geology as a science. I am personally familiar with both ideas and I've seen them compared before in a couple other books, but I've never seen these two models comparatively illustrated so well.2. How Geology Works. Now the authors dive into quite a bit of detail about the science of geology, and not in a dry fashion. They pose very real questions that anyone might ask about WHY scientists reached the conclusions they do. Christians or otherwise! Why do they draw certain conclusions about these rock layers and their ages? What do they know, and not know? How do they approach the evidence? Whatever position you've taken, if any, before you pick up this book, you need to give this section a fair shake.3. Fossils. What are the specific fossils found in the Grand Canyon and elsewhere? What ramifications do these have for flood geology?4. Carving of the Canyon. So far they've covered how the layers were laid down, as described by both the geological sciences and by flood geology. Now they turn to the carving of the canyon itself. Was it done by a lot of time and a little water (relatively speaking), or a little time and a lot of water?5. A Verdict on Flood Geology. Make no mistake, the authors are supporting a specific argument. Does flood geology hold water? Can they back it up? And does geology as a science have any bearing on the Christian worldview?The book ends with many pages of references, author bios, and praise from other geologists and Christian theologians alike.Add me to the list of those who give praise -- but not to the book. To God who created this beautiful place.To the authors: thank you for capturing the Grand Canyon so beautifully, and with a very real heart for the Lord.

Well illustrated by several authors with differing styles. Colour photographs could be better quality. Mostly not too technical although some technical terms were not explained when first used. I would like more details of dating techniques. Author Biographies and Index but no glossary.

Outstanding book. Explains complicated subjects in terms anyone can understand. Superbly illustrated and breathtaking photos. A must read for anyone interested in the Grand Canyon and compulsory reading for anyone being taught creationist dogma.

If you believe that the earth is less that 10,000 years old or if you know someone who believes that, then you should have a copy of this book.