First published in 1993, From So Simple a Beginning is a visually stunning examination of the mysteries of life on our planet, suitable as a family reference or for the natural history enthusiast. Filled with full-color artwork -- specially commissioned illustrations, diagrams, and dramatic photographs -- the text is accessible and comprehensive. Four sections cover: the history of the idea of evolution; the chemical, molecular, and genetic machinery that enable living things to reproduce and modify themselves; the seven ways in which adaptation can take place; and contemporary theories, advances in genetic engineering, and future implications. The Chicago Sun-Times rightly praised this striking book as "a curl-up-by-the-fire fascinator". It belongs in the library of everyone with a questioning mind.