Explores the history, science, architecture, and mythology of the subterranean landscape, discussing the nature of human relationships with caves, catacombs, subway systems, and abandoned mines.

A fascinating look at the super volcano seething under Yellowstone, 30,000 years overdue to erupt, and what will happen when it does.

Blending history and geology, this narrative examines the influence of early surroundings on a geologist's choice of field and specialty and vividly describes the terrain of the Wyoming plains

Considers the global impact of the 1883 eruption of the Krakatoa volcano, documenting its cause of an immense tsunami that killed 40,000 people, its impact on the weather for several years, and its role in anti-Western Islamic fundamentalism.

The author of The Pleiadian Agenda explains how a series of cataclysmic disasters more than eleven thousand years ago forever scarred humankind's collective psyche, causing a continual fear of apocalypse, and reveals why the world is on the verge of an era of remarkable creative growth. (New Age)

Amber is an engaging overview of this natural substance. It also explores how the fossilized inclusions trapped in the golden resin of spruce trees provide a superb record of prehistoric species and habitats. Lavishly illustrated throughout, this book includes all the current knowledge and ongoing research, such as: - How amber is formed from the resin of ancient trees - The fascinating process by which amber preserves natural specimens - The secrets amber can reveal - Types of amber - Where amber can be found - The role of amber in science and art - Practical advice on how to distinguish genuine amber from fakes - Recent discoveries and developments Exclusive and particularly valuable features of the book include: - Stunning and previously unpublished photographs of specimens from the collection of the Natural History Museum in London - Detailed illustrated identification keys to the most common insect inclusions - The storied search for DNA in insect inclusions in amber Amber brings the study of this fascinating substance and its secrets within reach of any reader, and it will particularly fascinate rock hounds, fossil and gem enthusiasts, hobbyists and jewelry designers.

Gem is a dazzling visual guide to precious stones, organic gems, and precious metals that weaves together beautiful, specially commissioned images and science, natural history, mythology, and true stories of adventure and discovery. From diamonds to sapphires to limestone, this comprehensive guide profiles all the key gemstones and other precious materials, and stunning images show the jewels in their different cuts, colors, and uses. The stories, myths, and legends that surround the most celebrated gems and jewel-laden artifacts from around the world are revealed, from their journeys in the company of royalty, film stars, and thieves to the curse of the Hope Diamond. For additional reference, an 80-page reference section at the back of the book highlights a variety of other rocks and non-precious stones. Created in association with the Smithsonian Institution, Gem combines stunning photographs with expert knowledge, and its lavish jacket features a debossed and foiled diamond, making it perfect for gift giving.

A history of the role of rivers in shaping American politics, economics, and society draws on experts from diverse backgrounds to explore how the natural and human transformations of rivers have made a significant impact on the nation.

In this brilliant exploration of our cosmic environment, the renowned particle physicist andNew York Times bestselling author of Warped Passages and Knocking on Heaven’s Dooruses her research into dark matter to illuminate the startling connections between the furthest reaches of space and life here on Earth. Sixty-six million years ago, an object the size of a city descended from space to crash into Earth, creating a devastating cataclysm that killed off the dinosaurs, along with three-quarters of the other species on the planet. What was its origin? InDark Matter and the Dinosaurs, Lisa Randall proposes it was a comet that was dislodged from its orbit as the Solar System passed through a disk of dark matter embedded in the Milky Way. In a sense, it might have been dark matter that killed the dinosaurs. Working through the background and consequences of this proposal, Randall shares with us the latest findings—established and speculative—regarding the nature and role of dark matter and the origin of the Universe, our galaxy, our Solar System, and life, along with the process by which scientists explore new concepts. In Dark Matter and the Dinosaurs, Randall tells a breathtaking story that weaves together the cosmos’ history and our own, illuminating the deep relationships that are critical to our world and the astonishing beauty inherent in the most familiar things.

Considers the global impact of the 1883 eruption of the Krakatoa volcano, documenting the resulting immense tsunami that killed some 40,000 people, its impact on the weather for several years, and its role in anti-Western Islamic fundamentalism. Reader's Guide available. Reprint. 200,000 first printing.