A New History of Life: The Radical New Discoveries about the Origins and Evolution of Life on Earth by Joe Kirschvink and Peter Ward [400 pages, Bloomsbury Publishing, 2015; Guardian Bookshop; Amazon UK hardcover; Amazon US hardcover/kindle US]
Publisher’s synopsis: An estimated 4.6 billion years ago, the Earth and Moon were formed in a violent impact. On this, many agree, and even more that a long time after that, life began. However, few know that the first life on the Earth may not have emerged on this planet, but could, in fact, have begun on Mars, brought here by meteorites.
In this revolutionary book, leading scientists Peter Ward and Joe Kirschvink rewrite the principal account of the history of life on Earth. They show not only how the rise of animals was delayed for billions of years, but also what it was that first forced fish out of the sea and onto the land.
Together, the two scientists explain how developments in the environment led to multiple Ice Ages before the emergence of dinosaurs and other giant animals, and what the true cause of these great beasts’ eventual extinction was. Finally, charting the course of our own evolution, they explore whether this generation will see the end of the human species. A New History of Life proves not only that much of what we think we know should be unlearned, but also that the true history of life on Earth is much more surprising and wonderful than we could ever have imagined.
My first impression: This engaging book focuses upon the newest scientific discoveries since Richard Fortey’s Life: A Natural History of the First Four Billion Years on Earth, was published more than 20 years ago -- especially recent discoveries by researchers in the new fields of astrobiology and geobiology. In view of these new findings, the authors pose three main arguments: first, the history of life has been affected more by catastrophe than by the sum of all other forces combined; second, that three simple gases (oxygen, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen sulfide) have had the greatest influence over the history of life; and third, the evolution of ecosystems has had the greatest influence over the evolution of life. Carefully documented and written by two palaeontologists, this book is thoughtful, eye-opening and worth reading. Further, Peter Ward has written many award-winning popular science books, so you know this book will be a pleasure to read.
Disclaimer: Peter Ward was a professor in the University of Washington Zoology Department (now subsumed into the Biology Department) where I earned my PhD.
The Antarctic Dive Guide by Lisa Eareckson Kelley [144 pages, Princeton University Press, 2015; Guardian Bookshop; Amazon UK paperback; Amazon US paperback]
Publisher’s synopsis: The Antarctic Dive Guide is the first and only dive guide to the seventh continent, until recently the exclusive realm of scientific and military divers. Today, however, the icy waters of Antarctica have become the extreme destination for recreational divers wishing to explore beyond the conventional and observe the strange marine life that abounds below the surface. This book is packed with information about the history of diving in Antarctica and its wildlife, and features stunning underwater photography.
The Antarctic Dive Guide covers 31 key dive sites on the Antarctic Peninsula and South Georgia and includes maps and detailed guidance on how best to explore each site. Essential information is also provided on how to choose and prepare for travel to this remote region, and diving techniques for subzero waters. This book is an indispensable resource for anyone considering diving in Antarctica, and an exciting read for anyone interested in this little-explored underwater world.
This fully revised and updated third edition:
- Covers 4 new dive sites
- Features revised and updated information for the other 27 sites covered
- Includes new sections on the Sea Leopard Project and natural product chemistry from Antarctic marine organisms
My first impression: Princeton University Press is one of the best publishers for field guides, and this book is a lovely addition to their collection. This beautifully illustrated and informative book is crammed with lots of useful information, including how to plan your visit, and what to expect whilst diving there, the history of diving in Antarctica, how to avoid being attacked by a leopard seal (the apex predator in Antarctica), and a large section about underwater photography and videography. Includes lots of stunning photographs (of course!) and lots of maps and useful icons summarising each dive site so you can see key features at a glance. If you are planning to dive in Antarctica, or if you (like me) can only DREAM of diving in Antarctica, then this is the book for you!
.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..
When she’s not got her nose stuck in a book, GrrlScientist is very active on twitter @GrrlScientist and lurks on social media: facebook, G+, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
