#Review: Billions of Years, Amazing Changes:The Story of Evolution by Laurence Pringle/ Illustrated by Steve Jenkins #Middle Grade

Summary:
Ever since Charles Darwin revealed his landmark ideas about evolution in 1859, new findings have confirmed, expanded, and refined his concepts. Now, author Laurence Pringle, one of the nation's premier science writers, brings together the pillars of evidence that support our understanding of evolution in this ALA Notable Children's Book. Field biology, genetics, geology, paleontology, and medicine all add to the impressive structure of evidence. With a perfect blend of science and art, renowned illustrator Steve Jenkins creates stunning new depictions of important concepts and key evolutionary scientists. More than fifty photographs capture natural marvels, including awe-inspiring fossils, life forms, and geological wonders. The result is a full, clear, and up-to-date account of the monumental evidence supporting the modern view of evolution.

My review:
The concept of evolution is often hotly debated among people. I do not care to get into such a debate. This is a science book and it has to be read as such. Evolution has come to be an acceptable process of natural life and death. This book meticulously delves into such a process with scientific facts and evidence. Throughout the book there are numerous photos to support such findings. The illustrator in this case did a fantastic job. The author did elaborate research to also support these findings.

The books is thorough. Although I read this in one sitting, I would suggest a middle school child not do so. Again, it is a science book by nature (excuse the pun) and is really meant to be studied slower for fuller understanding.

There is a glossary in the back which is very helpful in the process of studying this book. Many words might be difficult to understand even thought the author did a fairly good job of explaining a word within the text. 

In addition, there is an index in the very back of the book for studying one particular subject within the book as well as bibliography. This is also nice as a child reader may want to study further a particular section.

Overall, I liked the book and could see it used in classrooms. I give it 4 stars.

Disclosure: I obtained this book through my local library. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may not reflect your own. ~Naila Moon

Where to find the author:

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