Earth (Second Edition): The Definitive Visual Guide

Over a million copies sold worldwide

"Some books appeal only to the intellect, but this one is a delight for the senses as well... a classic." (Times Educational Supplement)

Welcome to a planet like no other. Composed of around 4000 minerals and blanketed with vast oceans, the Earth is unique in hosting an abundance of life.

Follow Earth’s story as elements collided billions of years ago to form a rocky planet that began to orbit the Sun. Earth reveals the dynamic process that formed mountains, volcanoes, vast rivers, canyons, and more. It showcases features from Mount Everest to the Mariana Trench, as well as natural wonders including the Grand Canyon and Galapagos Islands.  

This comprehensive volume explains how simple sea-dwelling organisms evolved into a kaleidoscopic array of eight million species and reveals the dynamic processes that continue to shape continents. It also reveals the effect of human populations on landscapes and climates and explains how we can all play a part in caring for our fragile ecosystem. 

For both geography students and everyone who cares about the planet, Earth is an essential addition to the home library.

DK was founded in London in 1974 and is now the world's leading illustrated reference publisher and part of Penguin Random House, formed on July 1, 2013. DK publishes highly visual, photographic nonfiction for adults and children. DK produces content for consumers in over 87 countries and in 62 languages, with offices in Delhi, London, Melbourne, Munich, New York, and Toronto. DK's aim is to inform, enrich, and entertain readers of all ages, and everything DK publishes, whether print or digital, embodies the unique DK design approach. DK brings unrivalled clarity to a wide range of topics with a unique combination of words and pictures, put together to spectacular effect. We have a reputation for innovation in design for both print and digital products.   Our adult range spans travel, including the award-winning DK Eyewitness Travel Guides, history, science, nature, sport, gardening, cookery, and parenting. DK’s extensive children’s list showcases a fantastic store of information for children, toddlers, and babies. DK covers everything from animals and the human body, to homework help and craft activities, together with an impressive list of licensing titles, including the bestselling LEGO® books. DK acts as the parent company for Alpha Books, publisher of the Idiot's Guides series and Prima Games, video gaming publishers, as well as the award-winning travel publisher, Rough Guides.