The Story of a Piece of Coal: What It Is, Whence It Comes, and Whither It Goes

The Story of a Piece of Coal, written by Edward A. Martin and first published in 1896, is a scientific exploration of coal's geological and chemical history. The book details coal's origins from ancient vegetation, the transformation processes it underwent, and its significance in ecology, geology, and industry. Martin aims to illuminate the often-overlooked journey of coal from its vegetative roots to its role as a crucial energy resource, addressing misconceptions and highlighting its modern implications.