The second volume of Hakim’s impressive Discovering Life’s Story series on the history of life sciences covers the developing understandings of science, especially evolution and natural selection, that arose in the eighteenth century. . . . Written in an engaging manner and with a wealth of helpful context, this extremely informative volume in an exceptionally well-executed series is highly recommended.
—Booklist (starred review )
The second in a series about life sciences, this volume provides a comprehensive history of how the theory of evolution took root, grew, and flourished. . . . While the scientific ideas presented are big, the straightforward prose simplifies the concepts so that the work reads almost like a novel, and the author’s use of the present tense lends immediacy. The pleasing layout, with many photos, drawings, etchings, paintings, and textboxes, animates the text even further. . . . A compelling and important history of a seminal idea.
—Kirkus Reviews
This is a thoughtful, engaging read of Western scientific thought that starts with an introduction to the Age of Enlightenment, tracing the momentum of those ideas over time. . . . Hakim’s writing style is a fresh approach, opting for an accessible tone. . . . Hakim takes a multidisciplinary approach, and connects the science to the social, political, and cultural environments in which these scientists are working. An engaging volume for young readers to use for reference—or, maybe, as their next nonfiction read.
—School Library Journal
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