Millions of years ago, an undersea volcano erupted in the eastern Pacific Ocean. Lava flowed, then cooled, building a volcanic cone above the waves. Over time, new volcanoes erupted, forming the Galápagos Islands. Traveling on wind and ocean currents, animals and plants gradually arrived at these isolated islands, and many of them eventually evolved into unique forms of life found nowhere else on Earth.

Marvel at this complex story of a young volcanic ecosystem where food energy moves through integrated land and sea communities, each in its own season of growth and renewal. Distinctive species featured include Galápagos penguins, marine iguanas, Galápagos giant tortoises, giant daisy trees, and many more.

Brief informational comments enrich each spread. At the end of the book, a glossary, poetry notes, an overview of human impact over time, and a map bring one of Earth's most remarkable ecosystems into sharper focus.

From the dust jacket