This large format book is simply gorgeous and packed with interesting information. Everyone attributes the discovery of evolution and natural selection to Charles Darwin, but another scientist/explorer named Alfred Russel Wallace arrived at the same conclusions at about the same time from his own observations. It’s like convergent evolution in the discovery of evolution!

This book chronicles Wallace’s travels and collections and shows how he arrived at the conclusion of evolution. The text is informative and well written. It isn’t overly bogged down with details so kids will remain interested throughout. It follows many of the hardships and pitfalls of his explorations, which are bound to interest readers. The illustrations really set this book apart, however. There are large illustrations on every page, and many use few and muted colors. The exceptions to this are the gorgeous and colorful illustrations of the different species of insects and birds Wallace encountered in his travels. There are dual page spreads of beetles, butterflies, and more. Give this book to science, nature, and animal lovers, and they will not be disappointed. Recommended for 3rd grade and up, and recommended for Cream of the Crop.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME