Breathing Life into Fossils: Taphonomic Studies in Honor of C.K. (Bob) Brain (The Stone Age Institute Press Pulbication Series) - Hardcover

The high quality papers would form a significant introduction to this field or a summary of modern techniques for academic coursework or for advanced professionals. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through researchers/faculty. -- Choice Choice

Taphonomy, the study of the processes leading to the fossilization of organic remains, is one of the most important avenues of inquiry in human origins research. Breathing Life into Fossils is a major contribution to taphonomic studies in paleoanthropology and natural history. This book emanates from a Stone Age Institute conference celebrating the life and career of naturalist Bob Brain, a pioneer in bringing taphonomic perspectives to human evolutionary studies. Contributions by leading researchers provide a state-of-the art look at the maturing field of taphonomy and the unique perspectives it provides to research into human origins. This important volume reveals approaches taken to the study of bone accumulations at prehistoric sites in Africa, Eurasia, and America, and provides fascinating insights into patterns produced by carnivores, by hunter-gatherers, and by our human ancestors.