Synopses & Reviews
The incredible diversity of life on Earth—from microscopic single-celled organisms to giant redwoods and blue whales—is studied in more than 1,000 stunning photographs and illustrations.
The introductory section, "A Planet Apart," guides the reader through the formation of the planet and the beginning of life, to evolution and animal and plant life today. The second section, "The Living World," introduces the kingdoms of life on the planet, from microscopic life, through plants to animals. The third and main section of the book, "Wildlife Habitats," takes a detailed look at the world's habitats, with "species features" that focus on animals and plants that are of particular interest, such as the vampire squid and the bristlecone pine.
Review
Children's Literature A good source of information for reports and projects, although students may get caught up in reading this attractive book whether or not they are working on a school assignment.
School Library Journal
Highly detailed color photography, including many full-page, spectacular spreads, illuminates the concepts and discussions. Clear, colorful diagrams explain the unseen processes of nature, as reflected in the digestive system of the carnivorous climbing pitcher plant or the communication of fireflies.
About the Author
David Burnie is an accomplished zoologist who was a nature reserve ranger before becoming a natural history author and editor. A prolific writer of many books, including several on dinosaurs, he has seen many of his titles win educational awards and science prizes. His titles for
Kingfisher include Kingfisher Knowledge: Endangered Planet and The Kingfisher Illustrated Dinosaur Encyclopedia, which was nominated for the Aventis Prize for Science Books in 2002.