The Tree of Life: Charles Darwin

In this brilliant presentation of a revolutionary thinkers life the picture book becomes an art form As far as I can judge I am not apt to follow blindly the lead of other men . . . Charles Darwin was above all else an independent thinker who continues even now to influence the way we look at the natural world. His endless curiosity and passion for detail resulted in a wealth of notebooks diaries correspondence and published writings that Peter Ss transforms into a visual treasure trove. A multilayered journey through Darwins world The Tree of Life begins with his childhood and traces the arc of his life through university and career following him around the globe on the voyage of the Beagle and home to a quiet but momentous life devoted to science and family. Ss uses his own singular vision to create a gloriously detailed panorama of a genius scientists trajectory through investigating and understanding the mysteries of nature and evolution. In pictures executed in fine pen and ink and lush watercolors cameo portraits illustrated pages of diary cutaway views of the Beagle as well as charts maps and a gatefold spread Peter Ss the author of The Wall Starry Messenger Tibet Madlenka and The Pilot and the Little Prince has shaped a wondrous introduction to Charles Darwin. This title has Common Core connections. An ALA Best Book for Young Adults An ALA Notable Childrens Book A New York Times Best Illustrated Book A New York Times Notable Childrens Book A Publishers Weekly Best Childrens Book of the Year A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year A Bank Street - Best Childrens Book of the Year Sweeping in scope lavish in detail this is a book to launch many a readers personal voyage of discovery. Publishers Weekly starred review Beautifully conceived and executed the presentation is a humorous and informative tour de force that will absorb and challenge readers. . . . A fabulous visually exciting introduction to the man his ideas and the science of the natural world. School Library Journal starred review An extraordinary book that explores Darwins life work and sources of inspiration . . . The detailed illustrations and narrative complexities demand of readers the same process Darwin set for himself: observe carefully make connections and learn. The Horn Book starred review