The Reluctant Mr. Darwin

Charles Darwin and the Making of His Theory of Evolution

By: David Quammen

Narrated by: Grover Gardner

In September 1838, a young Englishman named Charles Darwin hit upon the idea that "natural selection" among competing individuals would lead to wondrous adaptations and species diversity. Twenty-one years passed between that epiphany and publication of On the Origin of Species. The human drama and scientific controversy of that time constitute a fascinating, tangled tale that illuminates this cautious naturalist who sparked an intellectual revolution.

Drawing from Darwin's secret notebooks and personal letters, David Quammen has sketched a vivid life portrait of the man whose work remains controversial today.

©2006 David Quammen (P)2006 BBC Audiobooks America

Critic reviews

"Grover Gardner is a first-rate reader who seems genuinely to enjoy recounting the foibles of Darwin's life. An excellent general audience title." (Library Journal)

"Grover Gardner’s reading pulses with the excitement of Quammen’s quest. As the author sifts through Darwin’s developing insights and personality quirks...Gardner is perfectly alert to the author’s subtle irony and humor..." (Audiofile)

"It's easy to hear why PW named Grover Gardner Narrator of the Year in '05. He uses inflection, stress, rhythm and his rich vocal range to create an easy and often amusing conversational style." (Publishers Weekly)

Short but Excellent!

Wonderful for such a short audiobook and brilliantly narrated. Filled with relevant personal information and evaluation of historical significance. Does not shy away from criticism for an appropriately revered but complex man.

Narration was excellently paced and engaging. I found the author to add scientific background, social and cultural significance, and humor in a perfect mix! Highly recommended

Good book

This is a good book that focuses on a specific part of Darwin's life. If you are looking for a complete biography, this isn't the book for you.But the synopsis describes the work well, and it succeeds admirably.

think

loved it . a chance to get to know Mr. Darwin. now to see the genome discoveries.

worth the time

love or revile the ideas, they are worth revisiting. this expose of the man and his times is more than welcome and quite inspiring. thanks to Mr Quammen, but greater still is credit to Mr Darwin

The Reluctant Mr Darwin

Brilliantly encapsulated Darwin's career concisely in accessible language . The narrator had an authoritative voice and was easy to follow. Enjoyed the experience.