Fossils: The Key to the Past

"Fossilsis authoritative and attractive; it contains especially good sections on 'bringing fossils to life,' on extinction, on the early life of the Precambrian and Cambrian, and on the use of microfossils in stratigraphy." * Nature * "Fortey's book is original in that it views the fossils as a product of the continuously changing earth. The text flows well and is written with confidence and in a pleasantly uncomplicated style." * Journal of Geology * "The overall impression is one of a comprehensive tour through the heart of the earth sciences, delivered in an accessible way with passion and enthusiasm. This book succeeds both in presenting the substance of the science and in captivating the imagination and does so without sacrificing either." * Proceedings of the Geologists' Association * "This primer on fossils is a good introduction to paleontology and an excellent selection for fossil collectors or general readers interested in the field. The text is nicely illustrated with numerous excellent charts, tables, diagrams, and photographs. Highly recommended." * Choice *