In 1793, a canal digger named William Smith made a startling discovery. He found that by tracing the placement of fossils, which he uncovered in his excavations, one could follow layers of rocks as they dipped and rose and fell—clear across England and, indeed, clear across the world—making it possible, for the first time ever, to draw a chart of the hidden underside of the earth. Smith spent twenty-two years piecing together the fragments of this unseen universe to create an epochal and remarkably beautiful hand-painted map. But instead of receiving accolades and honors, he ended up in debtors' prison, the victim of plagiarism, and virtually homeless for ten years more.
The Map That Changed the World is a very human tale of endurance and achievement, of one man's dedication in the face of ruin. With a keen eye and thoughtful detail, Simon Winchester unfolds the poignant sacrifice behind this world-changing discovery.
“Smith’s unsung life provides the perfect backdrop for yet another entertaining intellectual history.”
"Winchester brings Smith's struggle to life in clear and beautiful language."
“Winchester masterfully weaves a compelling history.”
"A compelling human story"
"Winchester has once again captured the essence of persistence against odds resulting in achievement."
"Smith's life provides a terrific plot to frame his contribution to science. Winchester's wonderful account does credit to it."
"Well-researched narrative"
Simon Winchester is the acclaimed author of many books, including The Professor and the Madman, The Man Who Loved China, A Crack in the Edge of the World, and Krakatoa. Those books were New York Times bestsellers and appeared on numerous best and notable lists. In 2006, Mr. Winchester was made an officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by her Majesty the Queen. He lives in Manhattan and in western Massachusetts.
Distributor: HarperCollins Publishers
Publication Date: 04-28-2009
Pages: 368
Measurements: 8in X 5.3125in X 0.828829in X 10.08oz
