Canyons chronicles the origins, history, and structure of the world's most breathtaking gorges, from North America's spectacular Grand Canyon to western Australia's exciting Windjana Gorge, where the Leonard River snakes its way through an ancient barrier reef. This book also discusses tectonic activity, undersea canyons, liquid rock, and pinpoints recent scientific studies and modern-day ecological challenges. Full-color and black-and-white photographs and line drawings, a glossary, and listings of resources for further study amplify the text and engage readers in the topic.