Booklist
Gr. 10^-12. These scholarly writings about Darwin's work are drawn from Darwin himself, as well as his supporters, critics, and twentieth-century counterparts. The book begins by exploring the theories that preceded Darwin's, from ancient Greece to the years leading up to the publication of The Origin of Species. Next, selections describe how Darwin developed his ideas while on board the Beagle, and how the world reacted to them. A final section on the post-Darwin world, where supporters and detractors argue about the credibility of fossils, includes a pair of essays about the alternative theory of creationism from different points of view. The 21 essays are expertly selected, and despite being written for adults, are surprisingly accessible for high-school students. This fascinating perspective on the controversial nature of Darwin's work tells a compelling story about the revolutionary nature of new ideas. A chronology and suggested readings are appended. Randy Meyer
