Cambrian Ocean World

"In Cambrian Ocean World, John Foster demonstrates how some of the most challenging and significant questions about the early diversification of animal life in the sea can be addressed by the extensive fossil and rock record of the Cambrian Period found across North America. Written in a style that will engage both lay readers as well as researchers, this profusely illustrated and thoroughly researched book is an up-to-date and comprehensive exploration of one of the most critical periods in evolutionary history."—David L. Meyer, coauthor of A Sea without Fish

"Based on a chronological transect of the Cambrian and the Cambrian radiation, and bringing in expert knowledge from researchers around the globe, Foster revels in details and thereby exposes his most profound interest - and love - of past life and palaeontology. The result is a staggering 432 pages of delight - containing a lot of information, combined with many beautiful illustrations and figures. . . . This volume leaves you with a lasting impression and is, in my opinion, at present . . . definitely the best introductory textbook within its field. It is clearly worth reading."—Deposits Magazine

"Told with a wry humor, the odd pop cultural/sci-fi reference, and personal anecdotes, Foster does a great job in making this an enjoyable read and bringing the Cambrian to us. An alien world is transformed before our eyes into one that is increasingly more familiar. Although written for general readers, students and researchers of paleontology may also benefit from this volume."—Quarterly Review of Biology

"A must have for anyone with an interest in the fossils from this time period."—Birdbooker Report

"The Cambrian is passionately profiled in Cambrian Ocean World, part of the 'Life of the Past' series. Foster . . . has spent several decades collecting Cambrian fossils in the western US. His book is both a comprehensive guide to the evolution of life during the Cambrian and a narrative of his experiences hunting for the world's oldest animal fossils. The ten chapters follow the evolution of animals, ecosystems, and environments during the Cambrian, beginning with an alien world and culminating in an ocean realm that seems familiar, with sponges, mollusks, corals, and fish. The book is richly illustrated with hundreds of photographs of fossils Foster has collected, and short profiles of paleontologists provide a personal touch. . . . Highly recommended."—Choice