This documentary describes the story in a very nice way. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YpbevfWrYg0&feature=PlayL...)

This is an 8 part documentary. Well worth your time.

If you want more details I highly recommend the book that came along with the documentary. Earth Story. (http://www.amazon.com/Earth-Story-Forces-Shaped-Planet/dp/06...)