B format edition of a hugely successful Viking hardback, which has the potential to be one of the biggest non-fiction paperbacks of 2002. It tells the story of William Smith, a farmer's son who went on to become the "father of modern geology". A number one bestseller in the UK, the USA and Australia, it will be supported with a high-profile marketing campaign, including widespread national press advertising. "A wonderful book. This is a model of what popular history can be" }New Statesman{.