A New History, from the Shadow of the Dinosaurs to Us
by Steve Brusatte
After a bestselling book about dinosaurs, Steve Brusatte decided to take on a less popular topic — first mammals and their evolution. Again, he combines vivid descriptions of the bygone world with a story of scientific discoveries and the work of many paleontologists, himself included. If you liked ‘The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs’, you will definitely like this one as well, even if ancient mammals may seem less charismatic.
Many beautiful illustrations and photos were a big plus.
Thanks to the publisher, Mariner Books, and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.
A Memoir
by Séamas O’Reilly
Beautiful, bitter-sweet tale of a very strange childhood (motherless and with ten siblings) in a very strange place (Northern Ireland at the end of the Troubles). I admired the author’s openness and relished his gallows humor. The book reminded me a little of David Sedaris’ essays, but the O’Reillys clan seems much more warm and loving.
The author is a great storyteller (one of my favorite chapters was a tour of all the rooms at his family house) and he describes both his personal memories and political developments from a child’s perspective, to sometimes comical, sometimes heartbreaking effect.
Thanks to the publisher, Little, Brown and Company, and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.
