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

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.

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.

Great book

It's a very good book as expected from Dr. Prothero, my problem is with the narrator's pronunciation of certain words (ex. Ichthyostega, phenotypic) which are rather annoying to listeners familiar with the words but can also be confusing for first time listeners.

How long before this book is banned in Florida and Texas?

The presentation is excellent in both tone and pace. The author does take a deep dive into each of the 25 topics and sometimes the detail can be overwhelming. But even where the facts become to dense to retain it all - the overall ‘proof’ that each section contributes to the theme that evolution is true is very clear.

After listening to this you will not have problems responding to those that think evolution is just a theory on par with creative design. However you should understand that if a candidate for a United States senate seat can ask “if evolution is true why are there still monkeys around?” you should prepare yourself to be very frustrated in your debate.

This is a wonderful book and as stated above, well presented. I have rated it a 4 only because it is deep and dense in parts and does take some concentration to listen. That is not a bad thing but the reader ought to beware and ready to concentrate when you dive in.

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!

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.”

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!

Very Interesting - fast clip

Great narration and a very interesting format. covers a LOT of basic science. Recommend for today's you people!

Excellent! One of the best…

Really nice and interesting summary of our current understanding of evolutionary biology with historical context and a myriad of examples. Key references are also provided for each chapter. One of the best books out there on evolution.

knowledge & passion for evolution,

Author loves evolution, & describes its messiness, and takes us into many recent discoveries. Just heard chapters of transitions of whales between land & sea, & their evolution from—get this!—the Pygmy hippopotamus. He was often in the field, and describes some of his fellow explorers and their terrains & swamps. This field was more than dry old bones and dusty, it’s wet and fertile!