Thirteen chapters matching the thirteen programs of the BBC series on which it was based. Follows the evolution of life on earth, presenting fascinating observations about the likely functional reasons life unfolded as it has. Offers the grand sweep of life in an engaging and integrated presentation, with a very readable and even charming tone, and including more than 100 excellent color photos. TOC: the infinite variety,building bodies,the first forests,the swarming hordes,the conquest of the waters,the invasion fo the land,a watertight skin,lords of the air,eggs, pouches, and placentas,theme and variation,the hunters and the hunted,a life in the trees,the compulsive communicators...