Fossiling in Florida: A Guide for Diggers and Divers

Full of valuable info. Would have been better if the pics were in color.

amazing book, I founded useful to go go forward in my understanding of fossils history of Florida

Book contains only black-and-white images not really good detail for identifying fossils…

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and gave it to my girlfriend to read as well. We not only enjoyed the material, I had the privilege to get it signed by the author, and do a personal fossil “hunt” with him as well. Mark is extremely knowledgeable in his explanation of what the fossils are, how they got there, and why. The author truly “practices” what he “preaches” and his knowledge and expertise is not only highlighted in the book, but through his fun, personal experiences as well. I would recommend this book as well as a trip out with Mark- you won’t be disappointed.

If the author and his wife could have left footprints in the water, the rivers of Southwest Florida would show hundreds, maybe thousands, of trackways. The table of contents is a great how-to on its own. The photography and drawings by his talented wife are just as indicative of a great compositional photographer and dedicated artist. This couple lives paleontology and if you wanted a good carry along fossil book be sure to have a desk copy, too. The authors have been there and done that and still doing it. Their chapter contents can be read out of order and you are treated to the unique humor indicative of paleontologists and geologists. Collecting locations, safety, identification, preservation, storage, legal points, and local clubs are just a few gems in this treasure chest of experience-generated lore. I have one copy in my car and one on the shelf. This book, in itself, is a collector's item!

This is aimed at the niche audience of amateur Floridian fossil hunters, but its charming enthusiasm might interest anyone in the subject! The author is not a professional biologist or academic, but this seems to only make his explanations and descriptions all the more practical and accessible. The focus is on Ice Age mammals and ancient sharks. The brief but clear summary of Florida’s geologic history will make it clear why you shouldn’t expect to find any dinosaur remains. I would love to take his book along on trip to central Florida and have him sign it while joining one of his guided fossil expeditions!

We are kind of new to fossil hunting and were looking for some good solid advice. The author really knows his stuff and you can tell he's spent his life out there doing it. His book is a real-world look at pre-historic life in Florida. I read it just before our first trip and was glad I did. I was able to identify much more of what we found with Mark's help. Thanks!

Having canoed MANY times down the Peace River in Arcadia, FL over the last 20+ years - and knowing nothing re fossiling there - saw a newspaper article on the fossiling and couldn't wait to get back. Took our almost 9 year old son (whom we have now nicknamed "the fossil pro"), we had a ball! Then we heard about Mark Renz, and will be booking with him the next trip. Also, have a scout trip planned just from the collection our guy found there. Ordered the book for a surprise for third grade graduation next week. He's hooked, as are we!! Brian's Mom and Dad