The greatest mass extinction in Earths history happened some 251 million years ago. In this cataclysm at least 90 per cent of life was killed, both on land and in the sea, almost bringing evolution to a halt. What caused destruction on such an unimaginable scale? Was it the impact of a huge meteorite, or prolonged volcanic eruption in Siberia?

"The focus is the most severe mass extinction known in earth's history. The science on which the book is based is up-to-date, thorough, and balanced. Highly recommended." --Choice