Charles Brian Read (1907–1979), paleobotanist and geologist, spent his entire 42-year career with the U.S. Geological Survey. His mentor was the noted geologist and paleobotanist David White, who introduced Read to late Paleozoic floras. In the 1930s, Read became interested in the floral zonation of the Pennsylvanian; this study was to culminate in an authoritative floral zonation scheme for the upper Paleozoic of the United States. Read was also an expert on Devonian floras and the Cretaceous tree fern Tempskya. His leadership in studies of the regional geology of New Mexico, including fossil-fuel and uranium reserve estimates, is legendary. Read was mentor to several geoscientists, including S. R. Ash, S. H. Mamay, and the late G. H. Wood, Jr. His continuing influence on the paleobotany of the United States and the geology of New Mexico is high testimony to his multiple talents and the breadth of his accomplishments.