The Earth Book

Though the Earth may seem vast, it’s more fragile and mutable than people realize, Litton suggests in a far-reaching tour of the planet, which covers the formation and physical makeup of the Earth, life forms extinct and still present, regions and ecosystems, and the presence of humanity. Through a conversational and accessible narrative, Litton adeptly explains complex topics, such as the sheer scale of Earth’s history (“You might be surprised to learn that less time separates us from T. Rex than separated T. Rex from Stegosaurus”), assisted by Hegbrook’s handsome, softly textured graphics. Litton puts humanity’s relatively brief presence on Earth, particularly in light of past extinctions and geological time, into sharp perspective, while highlighting the creatures, landscapes, and human accomplishments that have made the planet what it is. Ages 8–11. (Mar.)