Featuring up-to-the-minute information from Britannica, one of the world's most trusted sources of knowledge, this stunning encylopedia brings home the joy of learning, and features over a thousand illustrations, photographs and maps. Page by page, you'll discover the story of the Universe, Earth, Matter, Life, Humans, Ancient & Medieval Times, Modern Times, and the dynamic worlds of Today & Tomorrow. Each spread includes a credit to the expert consultant involved with its creation, and special features highlight some of the most intriguing unsolved puzzles in science, archaeology, history, and engineering.This gorgeous volume is a modern classic, and will inspire curiosity and delight in every reader.