Antarctica: Secrets of the Southern Continent

The geology, ecology and biology of the continent for peace and science.

This comprehensive, fully illustrated and reader-friendly book honors the International Polar Year (2007-08) with a spectacular range of information on Antarctica and the Antarctic Islands, the world's harshest environment.

Antarctica features up-to-date material from an expert team of scientists, expeditioners and historians. Included are more than 600 photographs, illustrations and maps. Among the topics covered are: Prehistory of AntarcticaGeology and geographyFlora and faunaClimate and the nature of iceThe Antarctic ozone holeThe explorersCurrent scientific researchConservation issuesThe impact of global warmingThe Sub-Antarctic Islands.

Detailed information is found on current issues of land, law and treaties, shipping, resource exploitation, and tourism. Also included are the Antarctic Treaty, a gazetteer and a bibliography.

Front-page news reports cover the relative health of Antarctica. This authoritative book could not be timelier.

Beautifully presented, well written and thorough, this big book (10.25x13.25") offers the general reader an in-depth look at the natural and human story of Antarctica, with lengthy sections on geography, climate, prehistory, flora, fauna, animals, birds, and exploration. The story of each party of explorers is told, with separate sections for each early explorer and his journey as well as for later discovery missions. A final chapter discusses topics concerning present-day Antarctica, including its political situation, tourism, pollution, and methods for habitation through the year. The volume is filled with excellent color and historic photos as well as many maps, charts, and drawings. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Well illustrated with 600 photos, illustrations and maps this book is a guide to Antarctica's environment, geography, wildlife, and history featuring up-to-date material from an expert team of scientists, expeditioners and historians.