One of the most important fossils ever found, Archaeopteryx has puzzled scientists ever since its discovery in 1861. With its long tail, claws, and teeth, this little skeleton looked like a dinosaur-but it had feathers! Was it a bird, a dinosaur, or something in between?
This fascinating book explores the ideas that scientists have had about Archaeopteryx through the years.
We know that Archaeopteryx lived in the Jurassic Period, 150 million years ago. But could it fly, and how might its flight have begun? What were its ancestors? These questions have sparked some of the liveliest discussions among scientists today, for they raise points that get to the very heart of the study of prehistoric life. Just what is it that makes a bird a bird, a dinosaur a dinosaur? Should the way we classify dinosaurs be changed? A section called "You Be the Scientist" allows readers to think about what they have learned and draw their own conclusions.
Acclaimed science writer Miriam Schlein presents these concepts with the clarity for which she is well known, while lifelike paintings by renowned nature artist Mark Hallett perfectly complement a well-rounded look at the puzzling and intriguing dinosaur-bird.
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