Evolution

Gr 7—9—A solid, competent history of the evolution of ideas and the theory of evolution itself. Indeed, the rather dryly written book could easily be used as a basic textbook on the topic. The information-packed text begins with the very beginning: establishing the geologic time scale, via Hutton and Lyell, and going on to include Darwin's momentous work. Classification follows, and leads ultimately to adaptation and the evolution of new species. There is no mention of intelligent design, and the penultimate chapter deals specifically with human evolution. An extensive bibliography is included, as is a list of further references. Maps and data boxes accompany several diagrams and a few desultory photos (that seem like textbook afterthoughts). Certainly not for browsing or easy light reading, but definitely of use to teachers or serious researchers.—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY