The eighth volume in a 29-volume set which contain all Charles Darwin's published works. Darwin was one of the most influential figures of the 19th century. His work remains a central subject of study in the history of ideas, the history of science, zoology, botany, geology and evolution.

Volcanic Islands is one of Darwin's most important geological works and provides insights into the development of his thought.

This volume contains 2 of the 3 parts of Darwin's account his geological obserbations as the naturalist on the HMS Beagle 1832-1836. These volumes display Dawrin's keen interest in nature and carefule observations. They also mention the "upraised seashells" which led him to question the age of the Earth. An important factor in the theory of evolution.