New Books
The Genetic Book of the Dead: A Darwinian Reverie
Richard Dawkins' new book presents a novel perspective on living organisms, viewing them as documents describing ancient worlds. He argues that an animal's body, behavior, and genes can be read like a book, revealing its ancestral history. This approach allows scientists to decode the evolutionary past of species, uncovering how they adapted to their environments and developed similar solutions to life's challenges. Dawkins illustrates this concept with examples like a camouflaged lizard whose skin "paints" its ancestral landscape. The book offers a groundbreaking exploration of Darwinian evolution's power to illuminate the past, providing a vivid and nuanced view of evolutionary history.
Lost Frogs and Hot Snakes: Herpetologists' Tales from the Field
"Lost Frogs and Hot Snakes," edited by Martha L. Crump, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of herpetology through 50 field biologists' essays. From Peru's beaches to China's mountains, readers experience the excitement and challenges of studying amphibians and reptiles in their natural habitats. The collection recounts mishaps, discoveries, and rare encounters, providing insight into the daily life of field biologists. With warmth and humor, these stories highlight the importance of engaging with nature and underscore the critical role of amphibians and reptiles in our planet's ecosystem.
From Chromosomes to Mobile Genetic Elements: The Life and Work of Nobel Laureate Barbara Mcclintock
Barbara McClintock (1902-1992), a Nobel Laureate in cytogenetics and evolutionary biology, is the subject of this comprehensive biography. The book traces her scientific journey from her early years through her groundbreaking discovery of transposable elements in the mid-1940s, which eventually earned her the Nobel Prize. It contextualizes McClintock's life and work within the social and scientific landscape of her time, debunking myths and misinterpretations surrounding her career. The biography covers her family background, education, research in Nazi Germany, and her significant contributions to the field long before her Nobel-winning discovery. It offers a well-documented, demystified account of McClintock's life and her lasting impact on genetics.
Of Cockroaches and Crickets: Learning to Love Creatures That Skitter and Jump
Entomologist Frank Nischk's book challenges our perceptions of "nasty" insects, particularly cockroaches. Through humorous and captivating anecdotes, he reveals the fascinating world of these often-misunderstood creatures. Nischk's journey from hummingbird research to cockroach studies leads to surprising discoveries about their resilience, parenting skills, and adaptability. His adventures in Ecuador's insect-rich jungles and encounters with various species showcase the diversity and importance of insects in our ecosystem. The book offers a fresh perspective on bugs, encouraging readers to appreciate their beauty and significance in the natural world.
The Scientific Legacy of Har Gobind Khorana: Total Synthesis and the Genetic Code
Har Gobind Khorana's scientific biography traces his remarkable journey from rural poverty in India to becoming a Nobel Prize-winning chemist in the United States. The book chronicles his education in Britain and Switzerland, followed by his career in Canada and the US. It details Khorana's groundbreaking achievements, including deciphering the genetic code, synthesizing the first functional gene, contributing to PCR technology, and studying the structure-function relationship of biological macromolecules in membranes. The biography emphasizes Khorana's unwavering dedication to science and explores his enduring legacy, offering inspiration for future generations of scientists.
The Monarch Butterfly Migration: Its Rise and Fall
Each fall, millions of monarch butterflies embark on a 3,000-mile migration from Canada to Mexico, captivating butterfly enthusiasts along the way. This book explores the monarch's incredible journey, its rise to public attention following a 1976 National Geographic article, and the subsequent conservation efforts. The author, Monika Maeckle, delves into the butterflies' history, current challenges, and the community of scientists and advocates working to protect them. The book also examines broader issues of climate change and the balance between advocacy and scientific accuracy, encouraging readers to appreciate and preserve the natural wonders around them.
Dissection Photography: Cadavers, Abjection, and the Formation of Identity
In "Dissection Photography: A Cultural History," the author explores a shocking genre of late 19th and early 20th-century photography where medical students posed with cadavers. The book unveils previously unseen images and anecdotes, examining the visual culture of death in anatomy labs from both photographic and medical viewpoints. It delves into how these photographs became an expression of student identity and evolved into a transgressive ritual that eventually superseded the act of dissection itself. This unique cultural history sheds light on a little-known aspect of medical education and the complex relationship between death, science, and photography during this period.
Octopus Biology and Ecology
"Octopus Biology and Ecology" offers a comprehensive exploration of these remarkable creatures, covering their origins, life cycles, behaviors, and habitats. The book features detailed accounts of 21 species worldwide, accompanied by vibrant images. It delves into the potential impacts of climate change on octopuses and highlights emerging research areas, including cognition, citizen science, and deep-sea studies. This invaluable resource serves marine biologists, students, and professionals in fisheries and aquaculture. As octopuses become increasingly important for human consumption, the book provides crucial information to support sustainable exploitation and conservation efforts.
Slippery Beast: A True Crime Natural History, with Eels
Ellen Ruppel Shell's "Slippery Beast" explores the enigmatic world of eels, blending true crime, natural history, and economics. The book delves into the eel's 200-million-year history, their recent population decline, and their culinary appeal as unagi. Shell investigates the mysterious life cycle of eels, their valuable elvers, and the billion-dollar illegal trade surrounding them. She follows the eel's journey from Maine to the Sargasso Sea, uncovering poaching operations and exploring potential solutions like America's first commercial eel farm. This captivating narrative offers a unique perspective on an often-overlooked creature that reveals as much about human nature as it does about eels themselves.
Annelida
Annelida is a comprehensive reference work on segmented worms, expanding on the classic Polychaetes (2001) to include Clitellata, Sipuncula, and Thalassematidae. It reflects recent research advancements and uses annelids as model organisms for evolutionary and ecological studies. The book provides an introduction to the phylum, taxonomy, collection methods, and anatomy. It features 77 updated taxonomic chapters based on the latest molecular phylogenomic evidence. Richly illustrated with high-resolution color images and SEM micrographs, it showcases the diversity and beauty of annelids. This definitive work serves annelid biologists and appeals to a broader audience of invertebrate zoologists and systematists.
Female Biology
USF professor Jennifer Dever's textbook derives from a course called "Female Biology" developed over 20 years ago to address a gap in undergraduate biology education. The course focuses on the evolutionary aspects of being female and women's specific health issues, topics often overlooked in traditional male-centric biology textbooks. It highlights the unique biological aspects of females, inequities faced by female scientists, and covers topics such as sex evolution, gender identity, sexuality, reproduction, anatomy, and physiology. The course also addresses healthcare disparities among marginalized female and transgender populations, aiming to provide a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to biology education.
A Sea Full of Turtles: The Search for Optimism in an Epoch of Extinction
"A Sea Full of Turtles" is an inspiring adventure story that explores marine life and offers hope amidst the ongoing mass extinction. Set in Mexico's Gulf of California, the book focuses on successful sea turtle conservation efforts while addressing broader environmental challenges. The author argues that optimism and a changed relationship with nature are crucial in combating the extinction crisis. By blending travel narrative with environmental activism, the book aims to inspire readers to take action and fight for Earth's biodiversity. It serves as a powerful reminder that hope and positive change are possible in the face of seemingly insurmountable ecological challenges.
Unnatural Habitat: The Native and Exotic Wildlife of Los Angeles
Craig Stanford, a field biologist and conservationist, explores the diverse wildlife coexisting within Los Angeles in his book. Highlighting over 150 native and introduced species, Stanford's vivid accounts reveal the ecological wonders of Southern California, from sagebrush to skunks and mountain lions. His work, praised by the Los Angeles Times, emphasizes the importance of appreciating and supporting urban biodiversity amidst urbanization. Through engaging storytelling and research, Stanford urges readers to recognize the natural world within cityscapes and warns of the dangers threatening these ecosystems. This insightful guide showcases the beauty and necessity of harmonious urban-nature coexistence.
Eve: How the Female Body Drove 200 Million Years of Human Evolution
"Eve" by Cat Bohannon offers a groundbreaking perspective on human evolution, centering on the female body's role over 200 million years. This New York Times bestseller challenges traditional evolutionary biology narratives, exploring why women live longer, are more prone to Alzheimer's, and experience menopausal symptoms. Bohannon's witty and erudite approach covers a range of topics, from academic performance differences between genders to the evolutionary implications of sexism. The book provides a comprehensive "user's manual" for the female mammal, filling a crucial gap in our understanding of human development and modern medicine. "Eve" promises to revolutionize readers' comprehension of evolution and Homo sapiens' success as a species.
Radical by Nature: The Revolutionary Life of Alfred Russel Wallace
Alfred Russel Wallace, a Victorian-era naturalist and co-discoverer of natural selection, led an extraordinary life marked by scientific brilliance and social advocacy. James Costa's biography "Radical by Nature" explores Wallace's expeditions to Amazonia and Southeast Asia, his groundbreaking contributions to evolutionary biology, and his complex relationship with Charles Darwin. The book delves into Wallace's humble origins, his self-taught expertise, and his controversial pursuits in spiritualism and socialism. Costa draws on personal documents to paint a comprehensive picture of Wallace as both a revolutionary scientist and a passionate advocate for social causes, highlighting his enduring legacy in the natural sciences and beyond.
The Voices of Nature: How and Why Animals Communicate
Nicolas Mathevon's "The Voices of Nature" explores the fascinating world of animal communication through sound. The book takes readers on a global journey, from the Amazon to the Arctic, unveiling the complexity and purpose behind various animal vocalizations. Mathevon delves into how animals use sound to express emotions, attract mates, mark territory, and convey information. He explains the science of bioacoustics, which deciphers these sound signals, and discusses how animals learn to vocalize and communicate in noisy environments. The author also ponders whether these complex vocalizations can be considered a form of language, offering readers a deeper understanding of nature's acoustic symphony.
A Brief History of Intelligence: Evolution, AI, and the Five Breakthroughs that Made Our Brains
"A Brief History of Intelligence" by Max Bennett offers a groundbreaking perspective on the evolution of human intelligence and its implications for AI. Bennett identifies five key evolutionary breakthroughs in brain development, drawing parallels between neuroscience and AI advancements. The book explores why AI excels in certain areas while struggling in others, using the brain's evolutionary journey as a framework. Praised by experts like Daniel Kahneman and Angela Duckworth, this work synthesizes complex scientific concepts into an accessible narrative, providing valuable insights for understanding both human cognition and the future of AI technology.
Most Delicious Poison: The Story of Nature's Toxins--from Spices to Vices
"Most Delicious Poison" explores the fascinating world of natural toxins and their impact on human history. The book delves into the evolutionary origins of these chemicals found in plants, fungi, and microbes, explaining why they exist and how humans have harnessed them for various purposes. From everyday stimulants like caffeine to powerful medicines and mind-altering substances, the author reveals the intricate relationship between these compounds and human development. This scientific journey offers a new perspective on the chemical warfare that has shaped life on Earth and continues to influence our daily lives.
Mischievous Creatures: The Forgotten Sisters Who Transformed Early American Science
"Mischievous Creatures" by Catherine McNeur unveils the forgotten legacy of sisters Margaretta and Elizabeth Morris, pioneering scientists in 19th-century America. Margaretta, an entomologist renowned for her cicada research, and Elizabeth, a skilled botanical illustrator, made significant contributions to the growth of American science. Despite their groundbreaking work, the professionalization of science ultimately marginalized women, erasing the sisters' achievements. McNeur's meticulously researched book restores these unsung heroines to their rightful place in scientific history, highlighting their crucial role in shaping early American scientific endeavors.
The Accidental Ecosystem: People and Wildlife in American Cities
"The Accidental Ecosystem" by Peter S. Alagona explores the unexpected resurgence of wildlife in American cities. Despite global wildlife decline, urban areas have become thriving habitats for diverse species. Alagona examines this phenomenon across multiple cities, arguing that it's largely an unintended consequence of human decisions. The book delves into the historical context of urban wildlife, challenges traditional notions of wildness, and proposes a reimagining of human-animal coexistence in shared urban spaces. It advocates for policies that promote just and sustainable approaches to urban ecosystem management, moving beyond the conflict between those who welcome urban wildlife and those who see it as a nuisance.
The Advent of Phylocode: The Continuing Evolution of Biological Nomenclature
Traditional biological nomenclature has limitations in reflecting evolutionary relationships, prompting the development of the PhyloCode - a new naming system based on phylogenetic studies. While the PhyloCode's technical documentation targets specialists, this book makes the subject accessible to a broader audience. It covers 300 years of taxonomic history, from Linnaeus to modern phylogenetics, and explains why precise taxon naming is crucial in today's biodiversity crisis. The work draws from extensive scientific literature and the author's experience with the International Society for Phylogenetic Nomenclature.
Editing Humanity: The CRISPR Revolution and the New Era of Genome Editing
Kevin Davies' "Editing Humanity" explores the revolutionary gene-editing technology CRISPR, which allows scientists to modify DNA with unprecedented precision. The book delves into CRISPR's potential to eradicate hereditary diseases and disabilities, while also addressing the ethical concerns and risks of misuse. Davies provides an engaging narrative that follows scientists at the forefront of CRISPR research and patients whose lives could be transformed by this breakthrough. He examines the far-reaching implications of this technology, from the controversial "CRISPR babies" in China to its potential impact on future generations.
The Code Breaker: Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future of the Human Race
Walter Isaacson's book chronicles Jennifer Doudna's journey from a curious sixth-grader to a Nobel Prize-winning scientist who co-discovered CRISPR, a revolutionary gene-editing tool. Despite discouragement, Doudna pursued her passion for understanding nature and making groundbreaking discoveries. The book explores the intense competition in scientific research and the moral implications of CRISPR technology. Isaacson highlights how this innovation marks the beginning of a life-science revolution, potentially allowing us to cure diseases, create vaccines, and even enhance human traits. The author also delves into the ethical questions surrounding these advancements, making it a compelling read about science and its impact on society.
Hymenoptera: The Natural History and Diversity of Wasps, Bees and Ants
Hymenoptera, by Stephen A. Marshall, is a comprehensive and visually stunning exploration of wasps, bees, and ants. Winner of the 2024 Dartmouth Medal, this reference work combines rigorous science with accessibility, making it suitable for both experts and laypeople. The book features thousands of color photographs, detailed keys, and informative text covering the diversity, importance, and natural history of Hymenoptera. Marshall's expertise shines through as he guides readers through the 100+ families of wasps, providing essential information on behavior, biology, and identification. This volume is a valuable resource for entomologists, students, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Ethology And Behavioral Ecology Of Marine Mammals
7-volume series providing ethological information on the major groupings of marine mammals, including 1) toothed whales and dolphins, 2) baleen whales, 3) eared seals and walrus, 4) true seals, 5) sea otter, marine otter and polar bear, and 6) manatees and dugong, the sirens.
The SAGE Encyclopedia of Theory in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
This encyclopedia explores the role of theories in STEM disciplines, examining how they shape understanding and learning in these fields. It delves into the construction, evolution, and significance of theories, highlighting their importance in unlocking the mysteries of the world. The work features over 200 expert-authored articles, organized thematically with a Reader's Guide. Each entry includes further readings, cross-references, and a Resource Guide listing key books, journals, associations, and websites. This comprehensive reference provides valuable insights into the theoretical foundations of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
For the Bees: A Handbook for Happy Beekeeping
"For the Bees" by Tara Chapman is a comprehensive guide for novice beekeepers. The book begins with an in-depth exploration of honey bee biology, nutrition, and hive structure, providing a scientific foundation for understanding these fascinating insects. Chapman, drawing from her experience as founder of Two Hives Honey, offers practical advice on hive management, pest control, swarm handling, and honey harvesting. The guide is enriched with engaging illustrations and personal anecdotes, making it an accessible and enjoyable resource for those embarking on their beekeeping journey.
The Lost Scientists of World War II
This book tells the stories of scientists from Germany and other European countries who vanished during World War II. These erudite scholars contributed to diverse scientific fields and were associated with some of the world's leading universities and research institutions. Despite their proficiency, they all sought help from agencies to relocate to the UK in the 1930s, but were unable to secure the necessary assistance.The Lost Scientists of World War II explores the fascinating narratives of thirty of these scientific refugees, delving into the reasons behind the unavailability of aid and presenting fresh insights into the tragic fates or astounding survival experiences of these individuals.
Being Human in STEM: Partnering with Students to Shape Inclusive Practices and Communities
This book presents the Being Human in STEM Initiative (HSTEM), a model for creating inclusive environments in undergraduate STEM education. Born from student protests at Amherst College, HSTEM challenges assumptions about who belongs in STEM fields. The authors provide a framework for developing HSTEM courses, evaluating inclusive change initiatives, and adapting the model to various institutions. The book offers strategies for making any course more inclusive through active listening, validation, and reflective practice. It emphasizes the importance of institutional culture shifts and provides resources for educators to implement these changes. Each chapter includes reflective questions and practical exercises to foster inclusivity in STEM classrooms and laboratories.
Sharing Our Science: How to Write and Speak STEM
"Sharing Our Science" by Brandon Brown is a comprehensive guide for STEM professionals seeking to improve their written and oral communication skills. The book addresses the growing need for scientists and engineers to effectively convey their work through various media. Brown covers fundamental writing principles, scientific-specific considerations, and social aspects of communication. Drawing from his experience as a scientist and writing instructor, he provides practical advice on crafting engaging narratives, conveying complex ideas, and presenting information across different formats. This accessible handbook is an invaluable resource for STEM practitioners aiming to enhance their communication abilities and share their work with both technical and general audiences.
Book summaries composed with AI-assistance.