From the preserved remains of prehistoric life to ancient footprints and coprolites, the world is full of fossils that give us a look into the past. How do fossils form? What can they tell us about Earth's many mysteries? And why are they left behind even after the death of their ancient specimens? Discover the steps paleontologists take to find and preserve fossils, and how the rocky remains can help us understand the evolution of life. Extraordinary photos and real-world examples invite readers to explore fossils, while an encyclopedic-entry-style format makes the text approachable and highly browsable. Final comprehension questions engage readers to check what they have learned to reenforce comprehension.