Practical, concise, and easy to use,
Simon & Schuster's Guide to FossilsSimon & Schuster's Guide to Fossils contains everything the fossil enthusiast needs to know. A thorough introduction discusses science, evolution, and history and describes the process of fossilization, how we trace evolution with fossils, how fossils are classified, where fossil organisms lived, and where fossils can be found today. This indispensable guide includes 260 entries, including dinosaur fossils, all beautifully illustrated in color, and is complete with each fossil's classification, description, geographic distribution, and notes on the main areas where examples have been found. Information on age, appearance, and environment is provided and highlighted with easy-to-read visual symbols.
Whether you are a serious collector or an absolute amateur, fervently hoping to trip over an ancient shell or bone, this incomparably stunning, authoritative reference is the most useful and valuable book on fossils you can own.
Although it begins with general information about fossilization and the classification of organisms, most of this well-illustrated book consists of descriptions of some 260 genera of plant and animal fossils. In each case, the classification (phylum, order, etc.) is given together with a general description, the stratigraphic position and geographical occurrence, and notes. The genera used here are only representatives of a group and the information is of a very general nature. I think that the book is intended for casual collectors even though many, if not most, of the locations are not in the United States. More than is offered here is needed to really identify almost any of the organisms mentioned. However, the book is interesting and attractive. R.G. Schipf, Univ. of Montana Lib., Missoula
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.