author
Carroll Lane Fenton
1900–1969
A scientist who loved bringing deep time to life for everyday readers, he wrote lively books on fossils, geology, and the history of science. Much of his work was created with his wife, Mildred Adams Fenton, in a long-running partnership that helped make earth science more approachable.
2 Audiobooks
A history of evolution
by Carroll Lane Fenton
Animals of ancient lands
by Carroll Lane Fenton
About the author
Carroll Lane Fenton was an American geologist, paleontologist, neoichnologist, and historian of science, born in Iowa on February 12, 1900, and died in New Brunswick, New Jersey, on November 16, 1969. He wrote and illustrated books on geology and paleontology for general readers, aiming to make scientific ideas clear and engaging.
He published widely in both professional and popular science venues, and archival material from the University of Iowa notes that his early interest in nature was shaped by his childhood in Iowa and Saskatchewan. He also taught in universities, including a period as assistant professor of physical sciences at the University of Buffalo.
A large part of his writing life was shared with his wife, Mildred Adams Fenton, who also trained in geology and paleontology. Together they produced dozens of general science books, and their work helped introduce many readers to fossils, evolution, landscapes, and the people behind major scientific discoveries.