Eric, not to be a broken record, but so far am impressed with “A Worldview Approach to Science and Scripture” by Carol Hill if you are talking about evolution and old earth to someone who is not into the deep nuts and bolts of evolution, but rather a beginning student. She approaches different views respectfully, and addresses the problems each view has from a Christian perspective.
If possible, my opinion it is always best to read primary literature first, and then commentary. Start with an unfiltered view first, and then look at filtered views.
Sorry, I failed to note you were interested in the pure science rather than the theological aspects.