This is a very interesting book that explores the evolution of our earth from the perspective of looking to see what elements and events made the evolution of complex life (animals) possible. Many circumstances, or the lack of them, would have made the development of a life bearing planet impossible. Pick up some interesting science concepts and facts while seeing how unlikely it is that we would be here at all!

  ISBN Number: 0387987010

This is truly an enchanting book, a visit to Antarctica with a knowledgeable and thoughtful guide. Dr Campbell obviously loves this challenging land and its life forms, and he describes them vividly. He reveals the secrets of the adaptations of the plants and animals, and chronicles their life cycles. He knows the history of the continent, of the explorers who travelled to it, and of the commercial exploitation that followed. This book is a joy to read, and gives a vivid picture of an ecosystem that seems simple because it supports few species, yet reveals an amazing variety of ingenious adaptations.

ISBN Number: 69-x0-395-589

This is a 'must-have' book. Dr Gillett has included and explained what we need to know about planet construction: the astronomy, the geology, and the meteorology, and how the choices that we make in those areas will affect the possibilities for living organisms on our planets. This is an interesting book with High School Level and above Math. We do need some mathematical formulas, and they are included, boxed off and explained, with diagrams. (If math frightens you, you can take on the formulas one at a time.) He defines words that will come up in further reading, and discusses the earth at various times in its history. He discusses the other planets in our solar system and includes a wealth of fascinating detail. You can order this one by phone! Enjoy!

ISBN Number: 0-89879-707-1

This is a good one. It is an illustrated book on geology, showing many pictures that explain the terms and show the sequential development of various kinds of rocks and mountains, how rivers change over time, and how erosion works. It is full of information, and the illustrations will give you inspiration, too, for your own planet. I bought this one! I think you will enjoy it. too!

ISBN Number: 1-56458-626X

Publishers Address: Dorling Kindersley Publishing.
95 Madison Avenue
New York, New York 10016      Cost: $19.95

If you are even a little bit intimidated by organic chemistry, this book is for you. Excellent, playful illustrations and clear writing explain basic concepts that world builders need to understand. Seven chapters address patterns, energy, information, machinery, feedback, community, and evolution. There's a lot of information here, presented in ways that will make you smile. You will enjoy this book!

ISBN Number: 076371688X