The Beginning brings an incredible story to life: the most astonishing history of the Universe. It is the story of who we are, where we are, and how we came to be here. It is the story of life itself. Beautifully illustrated throughout, and containing a wealth of factual information to complement extraordinary narrative, The Beginning will take you on a journey of wonder: from alien landscapes to "upside-down" continents, violent collisions, and mass extinction; from worms with jaws and pigs as big as men to saber-toothed cats and monstrous dinosaurs. A time when humans were the victims, not masters, of their world. Encounter history as you have never experienced it before.

Includes index. "A Parents' Choice 2003 award winner"--Cover.

New heavens and a new Earth -- Life takes hold -- Invasion of land -- Age of fishes -- Age of coal -- Rule of the reptiles -- World of giants -- Dinosaurs diversify -- New era dawns -- Monkey business -- Out of Africa -- of ice and men -- Reference section.