Notes

One of a series of themed information and activity books, this book on planet Earth is cross-referenced but seeks to go beyond the standard reference encyclopaedic format. It examines information in a factual, historical, social, cultural and human way. The book is divided into Mysterious planet , Changing planet , Life on Earth and What future? . Each spread has a broad theme, which is described in the form of 50 questions. The first section of this book, entitled Mysterious planet answers questions, such as where did the planet come from? , presenting the information in a highly graphic fashion with boxed information, colourful pointers, photographs and contemporary-styled illustrations to hold the attention of the reader. Each page has a header with a question at the top which extends the topic and builds on information that has been given. The second section, Changing planet poses similiar-styled questions on subjects within the theme, such as have continents always had the same climates? with answers that span milleniums and extensive geographic boundaries. Life on Earth answers questions, such as is earth the only planet with life on it? with diagrams and charts, historical photographs and bright imagery aiming to provide a balanced and comprehensive explanation. In addition, there is an annotated chronological chart of evolution with a geological timescale. The final section Future , takes a look at the future of the planet asking what is there left to be discovered? , What can we do to save the planet? and What are world leaders doing? .