scijessreads

Infinite Life was a fascinating trip through the evolution of animals, using the egg as our guide. We are led on a journey from early life to the present day, with stops along the way at major points in animal and egg development to get a closer look at one of the reproductive structures that are necessary for reproduction. From water to land, the egg is key to adaptation and survival. In the hands of Jules Howard, viewing evolution through changes in the egg goes beyond textbook information and becomes something more of an interactive historical timeline. Just how does the changing egg fit into the spread of animals from water to land? How does the egg change from animal to animal? What is special about eggs that makes them (whether inside a body or outside) key in adaptation to a changing environment?

With enough information to make a biologist happy, and enough explanation to bring in the casual enthusiast, Infinite Life is a glimpse into a niche of science that many may often overlook. With engaging descriptions and an easy narrative flow, this book is an excellent foray into evolutionary biology from a unique perspective.

I read this as an ARC from NetGalley and the Publisher. All opinions are my own. Expected publication date is 5/9/24.