Fossils offer an unparalleled insight into the amazing history of our planet. This practical volume explains the best ways to hunt fossils from plants, invertebrate and vertebrate animals, including how to plan a field trip and present your finds. A directory provides a visual guide to more than 375 fossils, from the first multicellular life to the giants of the oceans. Entries include a photograph of the fossil, a detailed factbox, and an artwork reconstructing the appearance of the original plant or animal. With insights into finding, classifying, dating, collecting and understanding fossils, from the earliest ferns to fearsome dinosaurs, the book reveals what fossils are and how they fit into geological history, the sites in which they can be found, and what the study of fossils tells us about our natural world. Newly updated, with expert text and over 950 superb photographs and illustrations, this classic book is essential reading for anyone keen to learn more about the origins of our natural world.