Stars, sundials, hour glasses, wrist watches, pendulum clocks, atomic clocks-all of these have been used to keep time. Whether recording split seconds, seasons, years or centuries, human beings have always tried to find the best and most accurate way to chronicle the passing of time. In prehistoric times, early humans had only the signs of nature to keep track of when it was time to hunt, forage, or take shelter. Then came the rock formations at Stonehenge, the Roman sundials, and the Mayan astronomical calendars. Today, scientists have instruments than can precisely clock time down to the nanosecond. How timekeeping progressed from its first simple steps to its modern accuracy is an incredible story that will forever capture the imagination. Teamed with the National Geographic Society, author Gloria Skurzynski-a recipient of the American Institute of Physics Children's Science-Writing Award-presents a fascinating and exciting history of timekeeping in On Time. A riveting reading by narrator Johanna Parker will thoroughly captivate listeners. "... appealing and informative with ... a nice progression of thought."-Dr. France A. COrdova, former NASA Chief Scientist
There are tons of movies about aliens coming to Earth. Sometimes they come to be our friends, sometimes they come to destroy us-and sometimes they come to make circles in our cornfields. But what about reality? Do scientists actually believe there is intelligent life somewhere out in space? In fact, many scientists spend their days looking for signs of life throughout the galaxy. Others look for ways to make contact with aliens if they exist. And still others try to figure out how life beyond Earth would even be possible. Quite a few of these scientists also have some things to say about UFOs, crop circles, alien abductions, and little green men, too. What you learn just might amaze you. Author Gloria Skurzynski condenses the major ideas about alien life into an entertaining and informative book that will surely have listeners looking toward the skies.
