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Rating: 
Summary: Excellent survey of the beginnings of farming
Review: The beginnings of farming c. 10,000 years ago fundamentally changed human societies. Collaboration between archjaeologists and natural scientists has done a remarkable job in unravelling the where, when and whys of this story, but previous publications have concentrated on just or a few one regions. This is the first truly global survey of the domestication of plants and animals. It is up-to-date and well written and illustrated, and would be an excellent starting point for anyone interested in this topic. Readers should note that the paperback edition is substantially revised and is therefore preferable to the hardback, which still contains the original text. Anyone who enjoys this book will also like Jared Diamond's Guns, germs and steel.
Rating: 
Summary: Interesting account of the origins
Review: The book was a little slow going. The topic is probably not noted for its exciting appeal. I did enjoy the new information that it provided. The concept of an almost natural change from wild harvested to domesticated cultigen by virtue of an interface of plant and human needs rather than by conscious efforts on the part of the harvester was interesting. It almost made the process seem inevitable. The information regarding wild plant ancestors of modern domestics, the likely site of origin for and the path of spread of these plants were also interesting. For some reason I found the domestication process of animals somewhat less so. Overall I think the book would be best used as a resource for information rather than an afternoon read.
Rating:
Summary: Interesting account of the origins
Review: The book was a little slow going. The topic is probably not noted for its exciting appeal. I did enjoy the new information that it provided. The concept of an almost natural change from wild harvested to domesticated cultigen by virtue of an interface of plant and human needs rather than by conscious efforts on the part of the harvester was interesting. It almost made the process seem inevitable. The information regarding wild plant ancestors of modern domestics, the likely site of origin for and the path of spread of these plants were also interesting. For some reason I found the domestication process of animals somewhat less so. Overall I think the book would be best used as a resource for information rather than an afternoon read.
Rating:
Summary: Dry but very interesting.
Review: This colorful book uses a lot of information and statistical facts to bring the development of agriculture ot light in many regions of the world, even often forgot Africa. Plenty of pictures of the changes in plants and plenty of graphs and charts to help simplify all the information. A good over view of agriculture without getting into individuals findings on this day or that. A good read.
Rating:
Summary: Dry but very interesting.
Review: This colorful book uses a lot of information and statistical facts to bring the development of agriculture ot light in many regions of the world, even often forgot Africa. Plenty of pictures of the changes in plants and plenty of graphs and charts to help simplify all the information. A good over view of agriculture without getting into individuals findings on this day or that. A good read.
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