HOMINIDS: A Look Back at Our Ancestors

An authoritative introduction to human evolution, combining clear, vivid writing with outstanding illustrations that trace hominid remains from five million years ago to the emergence of Homo sapiens sapiens. Sattler discusses fossils chronologically, giving the age, importance, location, and cultural context of each finding; she also explains the methodologies used to deduce climate, diet, living sites, family groupings, and cultural patterns from fossil evidence. Both scientific and common names are used: ""Nutcracker Man,"" ""Lucy,"" ""Java Man,"" and ""Johnny's Boy"" are found in the index, along with Homo habilis and Australopithecus boisei. Where scientific names have been revised, the explanation is given and both names are indexed. The illustrations--in soft, brown chalk--clarify and extend the text, providing comparisons of teeth, brains, skulls, and tools. Visual reconstructions of hominid species are consistent with the text, and portray early species with warmth and dignity. A thorough index, bibliography, time chart, maps, and species chart enhance reference usefulness. A handsome title.