Description: Winchester tells the fascinating story of an Oxfordshire blacksmith's orphaned son who discovered an unmistakable pattern in the rocks. From this, William Smith developed the first true geographical map following fossils and rock patterns, earning him a place in history as the father of modern geology. Line drawings. Maps throughout, 2 in color.
Brief description:
Simon Winchester is the acclaimed author of many books, including The Professor and the Madman, The Men Who United the States, The Map That Changed the World, The Man Who Loved China, A Crack in the Edge of the World, and Krakatoa, all of which were New York Times bestsellers and appeared on numerous best and notable lists. In 2006, Winchester was made an officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Her Majesty the Queen. He resides in western Massachusetts.
Review Quotes:
"With descriptive contemporary visitations to places significant to the story and well-chosen historical detail, he makes immediate not only the magnitude and elegance of Smith's accomplishment, but also the thrill of each of the moments of genius necessary to reach his ultimate conclusion. Smith's life provides a terrific plot to frame his contribution to science. Winchester's wonderful account does credit to it." - Publishers Weekly (*Starred Review*)
"He dusts off the fossilized record of a revolutionary scientific discovery and transforms it into a compelling story. This is the transcendent legacy of one stubbornly earthbound man." - Boston Globe
"A compelling human story" - Boston Sunday Herald
"Well-researched narrative" - BusinessWeek
"a marvellous book " - The Independent (London)
"Winchester has once again captured the essence of persistence against odds resulting in achievement. His fascinating account will not disappoint." - Library Journal (starred review)
"Winchester brings Smith's struggle to life in clear and beautiful language, the richness of which he continues to celebrate." - New York Times Book Review
"Winchester has once again captured the essence of persistence against odds resulting in achievement." - Library Journal (starred review)
"Smith's life provides a terrific plot to frame his contribution to science. Winchester's wonderful account does credit to it." - Publishers Weekly (*Starred Review*)
"Winchester masterfully weaves a compelling history." - Newsday
"Smith's unsung life provides the perfect backdrop for yet another entertaining intellectual history." - Denver Post