Synopsis
Prepared by DK Publishing in association with the Smithsonian Institution, this oversize volume (10.25x12.25") is distinguished by masterful integration of graphics and text. Nicely designed pages featuring color photographs, maps, and diagrams of various sizes, from thumbnail to two-page spreads, engage even casual browsers. The text supplies plenty of information for readers seeking something beyond the visual display. Editor Luhr is chairman of the Smithsonian's mineral sciences department, and he was joined by other consultants from the Institution in overseeing the project; the text is by a roster of seasoned science writers. Material is divided into five sections on the physical history of the planet Earth, its land, oceans, atmosphere, and tectonic structure. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR
Cindy Lombardo - VOYA
For a match truly made in heaven, look no further than this stunning coffee-table book collaboration between the publisher and the Smithsonian Institute. Sandwiched between the endpaper photos of Arctic Circle ice caves lies a visual feast that not only provides a wealth of factual information but also endless hours of pleasurable visual browsing for all ages. The book is divided into five major sections, starting with Planet Earth (an introduction to the earth as a whole), followed by three sections devoted to the planet's main environments—Land, Ocean, and Atmosphere—and concluding with a three-dimensional atlas called Tectonic Earth. Chock-full of charts, graphs, time lines, illustrations, maps, and sidebars, the sheer size of this hefty tome can be overwhelming. And although the written material is well researched, clearly written, and comprehensive, the small text will pose a challenge to adult eyes. But these issues pale in comparison to the multitude of full-color photographs, taken literally around, inside, and beyond the everyday world that surrounds us. Thousands of images, ranging from thumbnail-sketch size to double-page spreads, provide a panorama of the well-known and everyday as well as the exotic, far-flung, and unfamiliar. Taken as a whole, these superb photographs catalogue the earth's land, sea, and atmospheric treasures in glorious detail. In addition, the authors examine the relationship between humans and the environment through an exploration of issues such as deforestation, population growth, and energy use. An extensive glossary enhances the text in this must-have for both public and school libraries. 2003, DK, 520p.; Glossary. Index. Illus. Photos.Maps. Charts., Ages 12 to Adult.