Geologists studying ancient bedrock in South Africa and Eswatini, dating back over 3.5 billion years, have uncovered evidence of Earth's early history. These rocks reveal a world with vast oceans, intense volcanic activity, and thriving microbial life around undersea vents. The findings, detailed in a new book, describe a dynamic planet with hot magma, underwater chimneys, and volcanic islands, indicating a violent yet life-sustaining early environment.