This is an extraordinarily interesting book. The breadth and depth of information contained within it is amazing. Please do not be put off or intimidated by its length. From its beginning, with a description of the the formation of the continent and the creation of its geology, through ancient pre-history, the evolution and domestication of animals, the evolution of human beings and archaeological discoveries, it had me completely engrossed. All the different areas of the continent are covered in depth. There is also a huge amount of information concerning the colonial periods and their implications. This is certainly one of the most interesting history books I have ever read, and I absolutely recommend it!