‘The statement of these facts, though made with all the sobriety due to a scientific discourse, has all the interest of a story for the young; and the narrative, if we mistake not, will interest other readers than those for whom it is primarily written. A word of commendation must be given to the illustrations, which are exceedingly well drawn.’ EDUCATIONAL TIMES. ‘To place the “simple truths of science” in rivalry with fairy tales and merry picture-books is not so hopeless as at first sight may seem; and certainly the simple, attractive style in which the marvels of the physical world are here set out must not only interest, but charm every bright child of eager intellect. Simplicity is observed to the utmost, but it is the simplicity of truth, so that the child is not interested at the expense of having afterwards to unlearn what he has read or listened to.’ LIVERPOOL WEEKLY ALBION. ‘Mr. ARTHUR NICOLS has attempted a task which at first sight seems extremely difficult, but which he has successfully achieved.... Children can scarcely help understanding and being interested in the wonderful story of the earth’s crust, and of past organic life upon it, which he unfolds. There is nothing childish about his style, yet he writes with perfect simplicity.... A better book to put into the hands of thoughtful children, or for use as a text-book by persons engaged in the private tuition of the young, it would be difficult to find.’ The SCOTSMAN. ‘Facts are stranger than any fancies which emanate from the writers of even fairy tales, and when they can be brought home to youthful students by ocular demonstrations the facts are invariably preferred to the fancies.... The illustrations which adorn the book are well drawn, and sufficiently numerous for the purpose.... The Author is a genial and reliable guide to a solution of the puzzle of life.’ ENGLISH MECHANIC. London, LONGMANS & CO. Transcriber’s Notes pg 29 Changed: For innumerable agest hese little creatures to: For innumerable ages these little creatures pg 91 Changed: Footnote 1: Wall-case No. 11 in Room III., several specimens, mperfect to: Footnote 1: Wall-case No. 11 in Room III., several specimens, imperfect pg 131 Changed: lived as that these flin weapons and tools to: lived as that these flint weapons and tools