Starred Review for Kirkus Reviews

A clear, well-organized presentation of the evidence from earth's rocks and fossils, the variation of living things, the process of natural selection and the study of DNA and radiocarbon dating that supports the scientific theory of evolution. Pringle (Global Warming, 2001) again takes on a complicated and controversial subject, explaining it simply and convincingly for upper-elementary and middle-school readers. He connects his audience to his topic by inviting them to imagine their own ancestors, in order to begin to look back over time. With lively writing and interesting examples from all over the world and from the distant past to the present day, he explains what people once believed and what we now know. Along the way he also introduces theories of continental drift and plate tectonics, defines "species" and other important terms in context and explains the use of the word "theory" in science. Color photographs and Jenkins' signature cut-paper illustrations (both seen only in black and white) along with short chapters, sidebars and an attractive, open layout make this an inviting read. Both the glossary and the suggestions for further reading are extensive. A necessary title for most school and public libraries serving young readers, this will be welcomed for its calm tone and straightforward, comprehensive introduction to the subject. (index) (Nonfiction. 9-15)  

ALA Booklist (Thu Dec 01 00:00:00 CST 2011)

This ambitious book surveys the history of scientific discoveries related to the evolution of species on earth. It begins with early geologists puzzled by fossil remains of extinct animals and evidence that the earth must be older than previously thought. After presenting Darwin's research and his theory of evolution, the discussion moves on to topics such as genetics, the discovery of various "missing links," the development of species on isolated islands, and evolution as an ongoing process, expressed today through drug-resistant bacteria and a new study of Galápagos finches. The historical organization of material works well, and Pringle writes clearly, though a few chapters, such as the one on variation, would benefit from fuller, more precise explanation. Colorfully illustrated throughout, the book includes many photos from different sources and some handsome images created by cut-paper collage artist Jenkins. Using early discoveries as a foundation for those that follow, Pringle builds a solid presentation of evolution as a pivotal idea and an ongoing field of scientific study.

Horn Book

Pringle traces scientific developments that led to Darwin's On the Origin of Species as well as subsequent discoveries that have contributed to understanding of species change. Straightforward explanations of such concepts as natural selection, genetic mutations, and speciation are woven through the historical timeline, making even the most complex ideas understandable. Copious illustrations include photographs, diagrams, and Jenkins's wonderfully detailed cut-paper illustrations.

Kirkus Reviews (Fri Oct 04 00:00:00 CDT 2024)

A clear, well-organized presentation of the evidence from earth's rocks and fossils, the variation of living things, the process of natural selection and the study of DNA and radiocarbon dating that supports the scientific theory of evolution. Pringle (Global Warming, 2001) again takes on a complicated and controversial subject, explaining it simply and convincingly for upper-elementary and middle-school readers. He connects his audience to his topic by inviting them to imagine their own ancestors, in order to begin to look back over time. With lively writing and interesting examples from all over the world and from the distant past to the present day, he explains what people once believed and what we now know. Along the way he also introduces theories of continental drift and plate tectonics, defines "species" and other important terms in context and explains the use of the word "theory" in science. Color photographs and Jenkins' signature cut-paper illustrations (both seen only in black and white) along with short chapters, sidebars and an attractive, open layout make this an inviting read. Both the glossary and the suggestions for further reading are extensive. A necessary title for most school and public libraries serving young readers, this will be welcomed for its calm tone and straightforward, comprehensive introduction to the subject. (index) (Nonfiction. 9-15)  

Publishers Weekly (Fri Oct 06 00:00:00 CDT 2023)

Pringle provides an accessible introduction to complex concepts such as natural selection and genetics, paired with Jenkins-s characteristically elegant collages. A chapter about variation opens with a discussion of the differences between dog breeds, and how such variation within a species -makes evolution possible.- Pringle describes missing links as -in-between- fossils that have helped construct a clearer picture of evolutionary stages. Compelling photographs of fossils and living creatures, as well as Jenkins-s paper collages, augment the substantial text. The presentation should help children gain a confident grasp on the fundamentals of evolution. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 8-12. (Sept.)

School Library Journal (Thu Dec 01 00:00:00 CST 2011)

Gr 5-8 Pringle's exemplary title offers a carefully researched and clearly written history of the evolutionary process and real-time examples of evolutionary events. "Evolution is, simply, change over time." From floating continents and isolated islands to the formation of fossils, natural selection, and the deductions of Charles Darwin, the lucid text offers a clear understanding of an ongoing natural phenomenon and the light that recent discoveries have brought to bear on it. Clear, color photos complement the text, as does Jenkins's nifty artwork. Pale blue information boxes pop up on occasion, as do a couple of maps. Simpler, and far more lively than Thom Holmes's dry Evolution (Chelsea House, 2011), more difficult than Steve Jenkins's own elegant Life on Earth: The Story of Evolution (Houghton Harcourt, 2002), and more solid than Robert Winston's somewhat fragmentary Evolution Revolution (DK, 2009), Pringle's intelligent and eye-catching book is an engaging, readable lodestone for researchers. Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY