The Leakeys: A Biography

(Hardback)

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Describes the lives of three generations of the first family of palaeoanthropology, and their quest for fossil evidence of human origins Three generations of Leakeys have dug in East Africa for fossil evidence that answers questions about human origins. Louise and Mary, husband and wife, began what would turn into decades of research and fieldwork, often disproving common theories and beliefs of the time. Son Richard would follow in his father's footsteps, along with his wife Meave, and would make spectacular finds as well. Louise, oldest daughter of Richard and Meave, continues the family tradition today with fieldwork in northern Kenya. The Leakey family's achievements have had an enormous impact on our knowledge of human origins and evolution. This biography describes their life in detail, including their discoveries, publications, controversies, and legacy. A timeline, glossary, and bibliography of print and electronic sources supplement the material.; Part of the Greenwood Biographies series; The only book on the subject aimed at a school readership

Reviews

Well-researched chapters help students answer typical inquiry-based research questions. The Leakeys thoroughly recounts the history of the family.Accurate, accessible biography that goes beyond facts to create an engaging profile of exceptional personalities. * School Library Journal *
[P]resents a concise biography of three generations of the Leakey family of paleo-anthropologists. Using plain language and an informal style, Bowman-Krum recounts the personal lives of the Leakeys and describes their discoveries, publications, and impact on our understanding of human origins and evolution. Supplemental materials include a timeline and a glossary. * Reference & Research Book News *

Author Bio

MARY BOWMAN-KRUHM is author of over 30 books for children and young adults and a member of the faculty, Johns Hopkins University, School of Professional Studies in Business and Education.