Darwin for Beginners

When I discovered that this is a required history (not science) textbook in a graphic novel format, I thought "What the heck is going on here? Graphic novels as textbooks? You're joking, right?" The book was humorous and I enjoyed the subtle attacks on religion.

This comprehensive book explains everything you've ever wanted to know about Darwin and the facts surrounding his "Origins of the Species." I'm not a science person AT ALL and I was miraculously able to comprehend the book's information, presented in cartoon format. It's witty and entertaining. Highly recommended, especially for people who don't mesh well with science but are curious anyways.

Reviewed April 2000

Following on the footsteps of "Marx for Beginners" I just had to read about Darwin, I had some basic knowledge of his life and work but not all the detail. Really this book is a great start for beginners, it teaches basic genetics and an overview of evolution that is understandable. I hadn't realized the dynamics between Darwin and Captain Fitzroy (from the Beagle and a stanch creationist). I was saddened that Darwin did not live to see his "Origins of Species") published, but I guess that it was more peaceful to have died first. The knowledge of the Scottish sheep with the mutated genes was not mentioned, but quite a bit of detail is given about the flaws of evolution, which are greatly appreciated. I think Darwin show more really was put in a tough spot having to publish before he had worked it all out. I'm glad that Wallace was given a lot of credit for his contributions. Poor Darwin, he really didn't have the personality to carry off such drama.

9-2000 show less

Strange format. Not a comic nor a book.

This means they can cover deep material without you feeling like you are in the depths.

Plenty of ground is covered and some silly/funny pictures as well.

A nice introduction - about an hours read.

A quick, yet interesting history lesson on one of the scientists that changed the way we look at life forever.

A satisfactory introduction into the efforts Darwin went to in writing On the Origin of Species and the concerns that he had about it.

Classics Illustrated version of natural selection--amusing and accessible.