An eminent German geologist has characterized the discovery of fossils in the Laurentian rocks of Canada as “the opening of a new era in geological science.” Believing this to be no exaggeration, I have felt it to be a duty incumbent on those who have been the apostles of this new era, to make its significance as widely known as possible to all who take any interest in scientific subjects, as well as to those naturalists and geologists who may not have had their attention turned to this special topic.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1875.

The second of four comic-style books providing an introduction to the beginning of time. Cartoon illustrations accompany text to retell the story of the Big Bang, evolution, dinosaurs and the beginning of mankind. Events are explained in simple terms with statistics and time lines included.

Join Ackerley the Acanthostega and travel back in time 4,500 million years to the Precambrian period, when our planet first formed. Witness the appearance of the very first organisms in the Devonian, Carboniferous, and Permian periods. Watch new forms of life emerge as warm seas allow fish to thrive and plants blossom to give food and shelter to flying and scurrying insects. Discover the facts, fossils, and fun science behind the birth of our planet, including early life forms, giant insects, and early land-based animals. This first part of the exciting story of life on Earth unfolds through amazing lifelike illustrations and fascinating diagrams, all narrated by a friendly prehistoric guide.

This volume explores the questions and answers surrounding the 'secret of life', combining approaches from the sciences, philosophy and theology, including the emerging discipline of astrobiology.