"This group of animals comprises a complex of disparate groups including the dolphin/shark-like ichthyosaurs, manatee-like placodonts, long- and short-necked plesiosaurs, the mososaur lizards, marine turtles, and crocodilians. Sea reptile paleontology is a very active field in terms of new discoveries and research, so the guide is highly topical. For example, it is becoming increasingly apparent that the long-standing assumption that prehistoric oceanic reptiles had low metabolic rates, like reptiles, is incorrect. Instead, it is now thought that many of these beasts were endothermic, and that this evolutionary adaptation was far more widespread than formerly realized. Preserved soft tissues are showing that most mososaurs were not snake-like undulating swimmers but were compact-bodied, deep tailed and swift swimmers (as shown by the attached skeletals that show the development of tail fins over time). Studies of bone microstructure are revealing how some sea reptiles dove deep enough to be victims of the bends. Gigantic forms as big as whales have been uncovered. There are about 350 named sea reptile species. About 250 will be accurately illustrated"-- Provided by publisher
Gregory S. Paul Books
Gregory Scott Paul is a freelance researcher, author, and illustrator known for his significant contributions to paleontology, particularly his in-depth studies and detailed illustrations of theropod dinosaurs. Beyond his work on prehistoric life, he has also delved into examinations of sociology and theology, bringing his analytical rigor to contemporary societal issues. His approach uniquely merges scientific investigation with artistic representation, breathing life into ancient creatures and exploring complex human dynamics. His recent research into the interplay of religion and society has garnered considerable international attention, highlighting the breadth of his intellectual curiosity.






This is a large format field guide to the true dinosaurs, the Tetrapoda, which are divided into five groups. It covers more than 600 species with full treatment of every terrestrial species.
The Princeton Field Guide to Pterosaurs
- 128 pages
- 5 hours of reading
"Featuring descriptions of 115 pterosaur species, over 5 dozen skeletal drawings and two dozen color life studies by renowned researcher and illustrator Gregory Paul, The Princeton Field Guide to Pterosaurs in the most up to date and comprehensive coverage of the great Mesozoic group that dominated the skies for 160 million years of the Mesozoic"-- Provided by publisher
The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs
- 320 pages
- 12 hours of reading
This lavishly illustrated volume is the first authoritative dinosaur book in the style of a field guide. World-renowned dinosaur illustrator and researcher Gregory Paul provides comprehensive visual and textual coverage of the great Mesozoic animals that gave rise to the living dinosaurs, the birds. Incorporating the new discoveries and research that are radically transforming what we know about dinosaurs, this book is distinguished both by its scientific accuracy and the quality and quantity of its illustrations. It presents thorough descriptions of more than 735 dinosaur species and features more than 600 color and black-and-white images, including unique skeletal drawings, "life" studies, and scenic views--illustrations that depict the full range of dinosaurs, from small, feathered creatures to whale-sized supersauropods. Heavily illustrated species accounts of the major dinosaur groups are preceded by an extensive introduction that covers dinosaur history and biology, the extinction of nonavian dinosaurs, the origin of birds, and the history of dinosaur paleontology--and that also gives a taste of what it might be like to travel back to the time of the dinosaurs. The Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs is a must-have for anyone who loves dinosaurs, from the amateur enthusiast to the professional paleontologist. The first authoritative field guide to dinosaurs Covers more than 735 species Beautiful, large-format volume Lavishly illustrated throughout, with more than 600 color and black-and-white drawings and figures, including: More than 130 color life studies, including scenic views Close to 450 skeletal, skull, head, and muscle drawings 8 color paleo-distribution maps Color timeline Describes anatomy, physiology, locomotion, reproduction, and growth of dinosaurs, as well as the origin of birds and the extinction of nonavian dinosaurs
The Late Jurassic Volume 2
Notes, Drawings, and Observations from Prehistory
- 48 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Through a naturalist's notebook format, this book immerses readers in the world of prehistoric life during the Early Cretaceous period. Its unique blend of writing and illustrations offers an engaging exploration of ancient ecosystems, showcasing the flora and fauna that thrived millions of years ago. This creative approach not only informs but also captivates, making it an intriguing resource for anyone interested in paleontology and the history of life on Earth.
The Early Cretaceous Volume 2
Notes, Drawings, and Observations from Prehistory
- 48 pages
- 2 hours of reading
Presented as a naturalist's notebook, this work immerses readers in the world of prehistoric life during the Early Cretaceous period. Through engaging illustrations and detailed descriptions, it explores the flora and fauna of the time, offering a unique perspective on ancient ecosystems and their inhabitants. The book combines scientific insights with artistic expression, making it both an educational and visually captivating experience for those interested in paleontology and natural history.
Escape into the gripping tale of Saffi, a young, privileged, and restless girl yearning for a life of adventure. In the backdrop of 1929, on a fateful Christmas morning, she coerces her friend and family employee, Lottie, into embarking on an impulsive journey from Melbourne to Perth. Little do they know, the uncharted path that lies before them spans over two thousand miles of rugged dirt roads. Ill-equipped for the arduous journey, Saffi and Lottie's fate takes an unexpected turn when they encounter Raana, a resourceful and destitute Afghan girl whose indispensable guidance propels them beyond Adelaide. Their group reaches its full complement when they chance upon Sam, a wounded young man scarred by a harsh upbringing and distorted views on relationships. Venturing into the unforgiving wilderness west of Port Augusta, they confront a land ravaged by drought and the looming shadow of the Great Depression. In the face of scorching heat, swirling dust storms, shifting sands, poverty, and the ugly face of racial intolerance, their disparities become glaringly apparent. Despite the hardships, Saffi cherishes every moment of their odyssey, as the splendor and solitude of the bush, shared trials, and a fight for survival forge an unbreakable bond among the travelers. As they navigate the untamed terrain, the beauty of their journey lies not just in the breathtaking landscapes, but in the transformation of their own spirits.
"The bestselling Princeton Field Guide to Dinosaurs remains the must-have book for anyone who loves dinosaurs, from amateur enthusiasts to professional paleontologists. Now extensively revised and expanded, this dazzlingly illustrated large-format edition features nearly 100 new dinosaur species and hundreds of new and updated illustrations, bringing readers up to the minute on the latest discoveries and research that are radically transforming what we know about dinosaurs and their world. Written and illustrated by acclaimed dinosaur expert Gregory Paul, this stunningly beautiful book includes detailed species accounts of all the major dinosaur groups as well as a wealth of breathtaking images--skeletal drawings, "life" studies, scenic views, and other illustrations that depict the full range of dinosaurs, from small feathered creatures to whale-sized supersauropods. Paul's extensive introduction delves into dinosaur history and biology, the extinction of nonavian dinosaurs, the origin of birds, and the history of dinosaur paleontology, and also gives a taste of what it might be like to travel back in time to the era when dinosaurs roamed the earth."--book jacket.
Dinosaurs of the Air
The Evolution and Loss of Flight in Dinosaurs and Birds
- 472 pages
- 17 hours of reading
Exploring a captivating evolutionary debate, this book delves into the relationship between dinosaurs and modern birds, emphasizing anatomical evidence and evolutionary biology. It presents a thorough examination of how these ancient creatures adapted for flight, offering insights into their physiology and behaviors. Ideal for readers intrigued by paleontology and the intricacies of evolution, it combines scientific rigor with engaging narrative, making complex concepts accessible to those willing to explore the anatomy behind these remarkable transformations.