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The Ends of the World
336 pages, 2018
Award-winning science journalist Peter Brannen takes readers on a wild ride through the planet's five mass extinctions, in the process offering us a glimpse of our increasingly dangerous future. Many scientists now believe that the climate shifts of the twenty-first century have analogs in these five extinctions. Using the visible clues left behind in the fossil record, The Ends of the World takes us inside “scenes of the crime,” from South Africa to the New York Palisades, to tell each extinction's story.
In The Ends of the World, Peter Brannen takes us on a journey through Earth's five mass extinctions. He explores the causes and effects of these catastrophic events, providing a fascinating look into our planet's turbulent past.
Brannen highlights the significant role climate change played in past extinctions. He makes it clear that understanding these historical events can help us see the potential consequences of today's climate crisis.
The Ends of the World doesn't just focus on natural disasters. Brannen also discusses the impact of human activity on the environment, urging us to consider our role in the planet's future.
Brannen doesn't just look into the past, he also explores the future. He researches what the next mass extinction could look like and how it might be triggered. It's a sobering reminder of the fragility of life on Earth.
The Ends of the World is more than just a history lesson. It's a call to action. Brannen encourages us to learn from the past and take steps to prevent another mass extinction. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the future of our planet.
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A fascinating deep dive into the cycles of planetary transformation that have shaped the history of life on Earth. It's a sobering reminder of the power of our planet's climate system, and the vulnerability of its living creatures.
Bill Gates - Microsoft Co-founderA vivid, gripping exploration of Earth's past mass extinctions, and the species we've lost. Brannen's book is a powerful reminder of the resilience of life, and the fragility of human existence.
Elizabeth Kolbert - Pulitzer-winning AuthorBrannen's book is a captivating journey through the deep history of our planet, offering a new perspective on the challenges we face today. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the future of life on Earth.
Neil Shubin - Paleontologist