Best Books on Evolution

Discover the indisputable truth of evolution by natural selection with Why Evolution Is True. This book explores the empirical evidence supporting this process through various scientific fields such as genetics, paleontology, and anatomy. Explore the many examples of species evolving and capture change throughout history with stunning fossils. Read this accessible and thought-provoking book to dispel common misconceptions and fears surrounding evolution.

Discover the story of human history, from the first humans to walk the earth to today's modern society. Explore how we came to believe in gods, nations, and human rights, and how our societies were shaped by the Cognitive, Agricultural, and Scientific Revolutions. Sapiens covers it all, using insights from biology, anthropology, paleontology, and economics to challenge our beliefs about what it means to be human. Are we happier now than we were before? Can we change our behavior and influence the future? Dr. Yuval Noah Harari's provocative and wide-ranging book will challenge the way you think about our species and our place in the world.

Explore the theory of natural selection and evolution in The Blind Watchmaker. Richard Dawkins offers an elegant rebuttal to creationism by illustrating how Darwinian natural selection is an unconscious, automatic process. Using simple organisms to show how complexity, diversity, and beauty developed over time, he asserts that nature's "watchmaker" is blind, operating without foresight or purpose. This seminal text is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand evolution today.

"Signature in the Cell" debates whether life is a product of unthinking matter or of an intelligent mind. Stephen C. Meyer presents a convincing case for intelligent design based on revolutionary findings in DNA and science. He argues that Charles Darwin's theory of evolution did not refute ID. This book is an eye-opening and often eye-popping read, named one of the top books of 2009 by the Times Literary Supplement. If you're interested in evolution, DNA, and intelligent design, you'll find much to ponder in "Signature in the Cell".

"Grandmother Fish" explores the origins of life on Earth through engaging call-and-response text and illustrations that come to life. It explains Charles Darwin's theory of common descent in a way that is accessible to children, helping them understand their connection to all living things on the planet. The book also includes helpful backmatter for parents, such as an evolutionary tree of life and tips on explaining natural selection to children.

Explore the central mystery of the “Cambrian explosion” in Darwin’s Doubt. Meyer delves into the sudden appearance of animal life in the fossil record without ancestors, and how biologists have come to appreciate the importance of biological information to create animal forms. Meyer presents a compelling argument for intelligent design as the best explanation for the mysterious features of this event. Discover the fascinating story behind this crucial moment in the history of life.

A groundbreaking exploration of natural selection, this book challenges orthodox beliefs by asserting that no species or being has been specifically created. While exploring the harsh competition for survival, it showcases the interrelatedness between animal and plant life, and the environment, offering an inspirational and human perspective. Written with a combination of scientific rigor and literary style, this remains one of the most important works of modern times.

Explore the incredible journey of human evolution through Our Family Tree. This fascinating book takes you on a journey that unveils our ancient relatives from both land and sea, revealing what we inherited from them. With an illustrated timeline and glossary, discover the roots of our old, old family and the incredible history of life on earth.

Discover the story of our planet from beginning to present day in this updated version of a beloved classic. Virginia Lee Burton's art and text bring Earth to life through five acts, providing readers with an in-depth understanding of our history and our role in it today. Updated with cutting-edge science, this book includes up-to-the-minute information on fossil records and geologic principles.

Explore the origins of life and what it means to be human in this captivating book. With engaging illustrations, readers will learn about the anatomical changes that allowed us to walk upright and increase our brain size, as well as the social, cultural, and economic developments of our species. Discover key species throughout history, from Australopithecus Afarensis to Homo sapiens, and learn about the evolution of our culture and way of living. A must-read for anyone interested in understanding our origins.