Fossils: The Key to the Past

This thorough introduction to the world of paleontology has been completely revised and updated, reflecting changes in the ways that fossils are viewed and interpreted. Using the fluid writing style that made Trilobite Eyewitness to Evolution such a success, Dr. Fortey brings the study of fossils into the twenty-first century.Beginning with a detailed overview of what a fossil is and how it was created, the author then explores how paleontology has been instrumental in explaining the evolution of both the earth and its many varied and fascinating inhabitants. The methods that paleontologists use to examine fossils in order to understand how a dinosaur or graptolite colony actually lived are clearly presented, as are detailed insights into how scientists have arrived at their current knowledge of extinct organisms. Dr. Fortey explains the reasons for the widespread acceptance of the "out of Africa" theory of human evolution and examines the fossil evidence for and against the theory that an asteroid collision caused the dinosaurs' mass extinction. The closing section offers a thorough and practical guide to starting a fossil collection, including information on where to find fossils and tips on identification, proper cleaning, and storage.