Spring 2026

Stones and Bones

Fossils and the Stories They Tell

  • Interest Level: Grade 4 - Grade 8
  • Reading Level: Grade 5

Explore the incredible history of life on our planet told through the fossil record!

Over the past four billion years, life on Earth has evolved from microscopic single-celled organisms to today’s incredible array of flora and fauna. In the course of this time, layer upon layer of life was buried in sediment, turning into a fossilized record of the planet’s history.

This highly illustrated, large format book looks at all the incredible things that scientists have learned from the fossil record: the ways in which continents have drifted, merged, and fragmented again; the life forms that have evolved; and the great extinction events that wiped them out. From bacteria to sponges to fish to tetrapods to reptiles to dinosaurs to mammals and finally to humans, Stones and Bones excavates the fascinating story of life on Earth.

Clear, concise texts from fossil expert, Rob Wilshaw, along with lively illustrations, diagrams, and timelines by Sophie Williams (Earth-Shattering Events and Map of You) make this hugely informative exploration accessible for readers as young as six.

With the science of paleontology clearly broken down and a unique Paleontology Today section highlighting the importance of learning from the past to protect our future, this vital book will delight not just dinosaur enthusiasts but anyone interested in the incredible history of our planet.

Format Your Price Add
978-1-80066-042-7
On pre-order until 01/01/2026
$21.99
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on library bound hardcovers and all eBook and eBook with Audio editions when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Grade 4 - Grade 8
Reading Level Grade 5
Genre Science
Category 5 Kinds of Nonfiction, 5KN: Browseable Nonfiction
Copyright 2023
Publisher Cicada Books
Language English
Number of Pages 80
Publication Date 2026-01-01
Text Type Informational/Explanatory
BISACS JNF003050, JNF025150, JNF051180
Dimensions 9 x 11.6667

Author: Rob Wilshaw

Illustrator: Sophie Williams

Sophie Williams is a Cornish illustrator and author. Her bright, engaging style of drawing is inspired by illustrators such as Nick Sharratt and Gemma Correll. She is the illustrator of Earth Shattering Events (2019), Stones and Bones (2024) and the author of Map of You (2022).