This is a collection of essays concerned with science, (mainly biology and medicine), and linguistics. The author is an expert in several areas, and writes in a very entertaining way about interesting things. The essays aren't that long, two to four pages mainly, but he discusses things rigorously, making observations that are not only valid today (the book was written 30 years ago), but acute or amusing too. The topics won't all be of interest to the layman, nor will they all be completely comprehensible to the average reader due to the odd specialised word, but someone not educated in science should be able to understand the majority of it. One of the best aspects of the book is how the authors expertise in science is mixed with literary and artistic appreciation and skill. So many science experts completely miss the point in scientific matters, as well as being dry and boring, whereas Thomas doesn't make either of these mistakes. I've become a fan, and I'm going to find some more of his books. ( )

Quick, humorous, and profound read. Consists of multiple short essays that keep the book moving. Many ideas regarding the philosophical and societal implication of biology and medicine.

A great book for natural history. ( )

More wonderful essays on science and biology by Lewis Thomas, up to the level of his great first book, "The Lives of a Cell". Thomas is must reading for any student of science who wants a jumping-off point for the philosophical implications of what he is studying. ( )