A diverse range of organisms and rock formations have survived for many millennia, originating prior to the emergence of human life forms. These geological formationssome of which even predate the dinosaursreveal much about Earths climate and the types of life forms that can endure certain environmental conditions. Using fossil records and geological evidence, this comprehensive series examines all aspects of prehistory, including the ascendancy of dinosaurs and the beginnings of humankind. Numerous photographs and illustrations invite the reader to pay homage to the genesis of life as we know it.