The Story of Evolution in 25 Discoveries

The Evidence and the People Who Found It

By: Donald R. Prothero

Narrated by: Tom Parks

The theory of evolution unites the past, present, and future of living things. It puts humanity's place in the universe into necessary perspective. Despite a history of controversy, the evidence for evolution continues to accumulate as a result of many separate strands of incredible scientific sleuthing.

In The Story of Evolution in 25 Discoveries, Donald R. Prothero explores the most fascinating breakthroughs in piecing together the evidence for evolution. In 25 vignettes, he recounts the dramatic stories of the people who made crucial discoveries, placing each moment in the context of what it represented for the progress of science. He tackles topics like what it means to see evolution in action and the distance between species in space and time, following figures from Darwin to lesser-known researchers as they unlock the mysteries of the fossil record, the earth, and the universe. The book also features the stories of animal species strange and familiar, including humans - and our ties to some of our closest relatives and more distant cousins. Brisk and entertaining while firmly grounded in fundamental science, The Story of Evolution in 25 Discoveries is a captivating listen for anyone curious about the evidence for evolution and what it means for humanity.

©2020 Donald R. Prothero (P)2020 Tantor

Good synopsis of current understanding

I read a lot of books about evolution and deep time concepts. This is the first that brings the entire scientific spectrum together in a meaningful way. The language and layout are completely approachable and I suspect that all experience levels can appreciate it. The author provides solid foundation about the different realms of research (from astronomy to molecular biology), without getting too deep into any specific area. I was pleased to learn some new information myself and not have it simply be a refresher.

It loses marks for me because the author/narrator consistently refers to images but there is no accompanying PDF. I am happy I listened to this while it was included in the membership library. For anyone contemplating it otherwise, I would consider a hard copy instead. Definitely, recommend the book, but wish I could see the pictures.

Must Read for Novice Evolutionary Students

On a scale of 1-10, I’m a .10 in evolutionary knowledge. The author did a magnificent job of delivering a mountain of evidence to support evolution. I truly wish I had read something like this 50 years ago. It would have saved a lot of anguish due to my mystical upbringing. As the author concludes, “nothing makes sense without the backdrop of evolution.”

Good news!

Wonderful story of our history. It filled in many gaps that was not aware of not knowing! So much information that one should listen multiple time!so very wel read and so very interesting!

Well presented

Clearly points out how evolution works with examples and explanations, how scientists aren’t ‘changing their minds’ but modifying or discarding theories that are proven wrong with more information. Evidence was presented with references, why theories changed, how the new information was obtained, and how that changed the theory. Presented in an entertaining and thoughtful way that made it easier to understand to the average person, I’m going to check out his other audiobooks.

a great history of Who We Are and why.

I've listened to it more than once. there's a lot to get out of it!