Several new works of nonfiction explore the long history of planet Earth including the relatively recent impact of humans and other animals. Each provides a unique perspective and context for investigation.
A Brief History of Earth
Andrew H. Knoll, Apr 2021, Custom House, an imprint of Harper Collins
Themes: Natural history, Science, Earth science
A BRIEF HISTORY OF EARTH takes readers on a 4.6 billion-year journey through the science of our planet with chapters exploring the chemical, physical, biological, oxygen, animal, green, catastrophic, and human Earth. Of particular note are the excellent illustrations, conversational writing style, and balance of anecdotes with facts.
Take-aways: Educators will find the connections to climate change useful within the larger context of earth history. This book would be a good choice for an AP content-area reading assignment.
A (Very) Short History of Life on Earth
Henry Gee, Nov 2021, St. Martin’s Press, an imprint of Macmillan
Themes: Natural history, Life science, Evolution
A (VERY) SHORT HISTORY OF LIFE ON EARTH provides a quick overview of how life evolved on Earth in a dozen short chapters. The first seven chapters explore early life, to dinosaurs leaving five chapters for mammals, primates and human evolution.
Take-aways: This primer on evolution would be of particular interest to science students and teachers seeking an engaging work of nonfiction for leisure reading.
A Natural History of the Future: What the Laws of Biology Tell Us About the Destiny of the Human Species
Rob Dunn, Nov 2021, Basic Books, an imprint of Hachette Book Group
Themes: Natural history, Nature, Ecology
A NATURAL HISTORY OF THE FUTURE explains how Earth has become a human ecosystem. Focusing on ecology and evolution, the author skillfully explains the history of humans and their impact, climate change, and the need for action.
Take-aways: Educators will find the timely topics useful in curriculum updates.
A History of the World in 100 Animals
Simon Barnes, May 2022, Pegasus Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster
Themes: World history, Animals
A HISTORY OF THE WORLD IN 100 ANIMALS explores dozens of animals that have had a close relationship with humans across the millennia. From the honeybee to the giant squid, Barnes examines the connection between humans and the other creatures that inhabit the Earth. Each animal is presented through a short, conversational essay.
Take-aways: This interdisciplinary work blends history, culture, art, and life science. Of particular note are the outstanding full-color illustrations, short quotes from literature, and engaging anecdotes that bring the animals to life. Students of all ages enjoy learning about animals. Educators will find fascinating examples to engage students across the curriculum. Use an animal essay as a springboard to inquiry or writing.
Whether helping educators keep up-to-date in their subject-areas, promoting student reading in the content-areas, or simply encouraging nonfiction leisure reading, teacher librarians need to be aware of the best new titles across the curriculum and how to activate life-long learning. - Annette Lamb
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