"One of the earth's oldest natural treasures, Lebanese amber unlocks the secrets of a little-known world populated by dinosaurs, pterosaurs, and cycads. Dating back some 135 million years to the early Cretaceous, the amber contains the earliest known representatives of many insect groups. It was formed in a wet, tropical kauri pine forest long before Earth's continents reached their present positions." "This illustrated book, the first major review of Lebanese amber, covers all aspects of this rare and highly valued resin, including its origin and its role as a commodity in ancient cultures. The authors discuss each plant and animal fossil thus far recovered from the amber, including nematodes, snails, mites, spiders and insects, and the earliest complete feather." Paleontologists, biologists, and evolutionists will appreciate the book's new information, along with its summary of early research and its analysis of how these amber fossils can increase our understanding of insect diversification, biogeography, extinction, and survival. With its descriptions of the origins, characteristics, and ancient uses of Lebanese amber and other Near Eastern resins, the book will appeal to readers of natural history and amber and gem collectors as well.

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Booknews:
This concise volume covers the major aspects of Lebanese amber— its origins 130 million years ago, its role as a commodity in ancient cultures, and its study and collection today. The book examines each plant and animal fossil recovered from the resin, and considers how these fossils can increase our understanding of insect diversification, biogeography, extinction, and survival. Illustrations (both black-and-white and color) are prominently featured. Poinar teaches entomology at the Oregon State University. Milki teaches public health at the American University of Beirut. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

The table of contents is to large to put here. Needless to say, it covers just about anything and everything you can think of!

This soft covered book is

What a gift this would make for anyone interested in amber or geology in general.