Longlisted for the UKLA Book Awards 2025

Uncover the story of life on this planet as told through the stones and bones that hold its secrets.

For three billion years, the only life forms on this planet were tiny, single-celled bacteria. But then, about 500 million years ago, something amazing happened. The atmosphere filled with oxygen and life exploded, with many different kinds of creatures coming into existence.

Scientists called paleontologists study fossils to find clues about how the earth and all the living things that inhabit it have evolved over time. From primitive, sponge-like creatures to huge dinosaurs, fossils tell us amazing tales about how life has changed in the past and might change in the future.

With lively illustrations and colourful diagrams, this is a hugely informative and accessible exploration of life on our planet.

Rob Wilshaw studied geology at the University of Southampton graduating in 2018 with a masters degree focusing primarily on microfossils and their use in predicting future impacts of climate change. This is his first book.

Sophie Williams is a Cornish illustrator, author and graduate from Winchester School of Art. Her bright, informative style of drawing is inspired by illustrators such as Nick Sharratt and Gemma Correll.

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