In his memoirs, Virgil Barnes recounts highlights of his life and career in entertaining detail: his childhood in Washington; his worldwide travels in search of tektites, accompanied by his wife, Milla; and his geological mapping and other research during his 58 years at the Bureau of Economic Geology and in retirement. Barnes began his long and prolific career at the Bureau in 1935. He directed the mapping project that resulted in 38 Geologic Atlas of Texas sheets and the four-quadrant geologic map of the entire state of Texas. In recognition of his many professional accomplishments, Barnes was named Distinguished Texas Scientist for 1988 by the Texas Academy of Science. A year later he was honored by the Meteoritical Society by being presented the prestigious Barringer Award. In 1993 he received the Public Service Award from the American Association of Petroleum Geologists for his "distinguished contribution to the science and profession of geology and for dedicated, unparalleled public service to Texas and the nation." The book concludes with a 12-page bibliography of the more than 300 books, maps, and articles published during his long life.