Field Guide to The Cradle of Humankind by Brett Hilton-Barber and Prof. Lee R. Berger

Field Guide to the Cradle of Humankind by Brett Hilton-Barber and Professor Lee R. Berger is a richly illustrated guide to one of the most important palaeoanthropological regions in the world. Published by Struik in 2004, this Second Revised Edition covers the Sterkfontein, Swartkrans and Kromdraai sites and the surrounding areas that make up South Africa’s Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site. The revised edition runs to 212 pages and combines accessible text with extensive colour photography and illustrations.

Field Guide to the Cradle of Humankind provides an accessible introduction to the fossils, archaeological discoveries, landscapes and wildlife associated with this extraordinary region. The authors explore the evidence for human evolution found in the caves and fossil-bearing deposits around the Cradle, placing important discoveries within the broader story of human origins in Africa. The guide discusses hominin species, fossil animals, ancient environments and the major archaeological and palaeontological sites encountered in the area.

Sterkfontein, Swartkrans and Kromdraai are particularly significant because discoveries from these sites have played a major role in shaping scientific understanding of human evolution. The area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, recognising its exceptional concentration of fossil evidence relating to human ancestry.

The book is particularly useful for visitors wanting to understand what they are seeing while exploring the Cradle of Humankind, but it also has considerable appeal for readers interested in palaeontology, archaeology, evolutionary science, South African natural history and African prehistory. Its combination of field-guide practicality and scientific background makes Field Guide to the Cradle of Humankind an engaging reference for both general readers and students.

This Second Revised Edition, published by Struik Publishers in Cape Town in 2004, is a substantial and visually appealing guide to one of South Africa’s most important archaeological and fossil landscapes. For anyone interested in the origins of humanity, South African palaeoanthropology, fossil hominins or the remarkable heritage of Gauteng, Field Guide to the Cradle of Humankind offers an informative introduction to the sites and discoveries that have helped establish Africa’s central place in the story of human evolution.

Condition: Near fine – Minimal shelf wear present.