The Rise and Reign of the Mammals: A New History, from the Shadow of the Dinosaurs to Us

The author of "The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs" brings mammals out from the shadow of their more showy predecessors and makes the case for them as creatures who are just as engaging as dinosaurs. Mammals originated around the same time as dinosaurs, over 200 million years ago, and have developed their trademark features such as hair, keen senses, big brains, fast growth, and warm-blooded metabolism. Today's 6,000 mammal species are the few survivors of a once verdant family tree, which has been pruned by time and mass extinctions.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 528 pages
Publication date: 01 June 2023
Publisher: Pan Macmillan

The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs, written by Steve Brusatte, brings mammals to the forefront, shedding light on their remarkable journey and showcasing their captivating nature as creatures on par with dinosaurs. This beautifully written and exceptional book delves into the origins of mammals, tracing their roots back over 200 million years ago, to a time when they coexisted with the dinosaurs.

Mammals, or more precisely, we, emerged alongside the dinosaurs, sharing a common ancestry that dates back over 325 million years. Throughout these vast spans of geological time, mammals evolved distinctive traits that have shaped their success story. These features include hair, heightened senses of smell and hearing, large brains, sharp intelligence, rapid growth, and a warm-blooded metabolism.

These remarkable qualities have allowed mammals to thrive and diversify into the diverse array of species we observe today. Among them are our own species, as well as our closest cousins. However, it's important to note that the 6,000 mammal species that exist today are merely the survivors of a once vast and diverse family tree. Throughout history, they have faced numerous challenges, including mass extinctions that have shaped their evolutionary path.

In his book, The Rise and Reign of the Mammals, Brusatte skillfully weaves together the history and evolution of our mammal forebears, including iconic species such as mammoths and sabre-toothed tigers that have captured our imagination. He also introduces us to fascinating lesser-known species that have contributed to the rich tapestry of life on Earth. Through his captivating storytelling, Brusatte sheds light on the remarkable journey of mammals and their profound impact on our world. This groundbreaking book not only enriches our understanding of the natural world but also reminds us of the resilience and adaptability of these remarkable creatures.

Weight: 370g
Dimension: 131 x 198 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529034233