In 'Annals of the Former World,' John McPhee masterfully weaves together the geological history of North America, revealing the ancient forces that shaped the continent. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, he brings to life the processes of tectonic shifts, erosion, and natural wonders, inviting readers to see the land in a new light. Each chapter serves as a window into the past, where time and science converge to tell an epic tale of the earth's transformation. McPhee's lyrical prose captivates both the curious and the scientifically inclined, making complex ideas accessible and thrilling. Prepare to embark on a journey across millennia, uncovering the hidden stories beneath our feet.
By John McPhee
Published: 2000
""The earth is a book that we read through the layers of rock, revealing the stories of time itself, where every fault line and fossil speaks to our place in the universe.""
The Pulitzer Prize-winning view of the continent, across the fortieth parallel and down through 4.6 billion years Twenty years ago, when John McPhee began his journeys back and forth across the United States, he planned to describe a cross section of North America at about the fortieth parallel and, in the process, come to an understanding not only of the science but of the style of the geologists he traveled with. The structure of the book never changed, but its breadth caused him to complete it in stages, under the overall title Annals of the Former World. Like the terrain it covers, Annals of the Former World tells a multilayered tale, and the reader may choose one of many paths through it. As clearly and succinctly written as it is profoundly informed, this is our finest popular survey of geology and a masterpiece of modern nonfiction. Annals of the Former World is the winner of the 1999 Pulitzer Prize for Nonfiction.
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“"The earth is a book that we read through the layers of rock, revealing the stories of time itself, where every fault line and fossil speaks to our place in the universe."”
Annals of the Former World
By John McPhee
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John McPhee is an acclaimed American author and journalist, known for his masterful narrative nonfiction and intricate storytelling. Born on March 8, 1931, he has penned numerous influential works, including 'Coming into the Country,' 'The Control of Nature,' and 'Annals of the Former World,' which won the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography in 1999. McPhee's writing often emphasizes detailed research, vivid prose, and a deep sense of place, reflecting his keen interest in human interaction with the natural world. His ability to merge personal narrative with larger themes has made him a significant figure in contemporary literature.
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