The Darwin Reader

Rating:
Summary: Very good introduction to Darwin's works
Review: Ridley selected some of Darwin's most important passages from his various works- from "Voyage of the Beagle" to his well-known "Origin of Species". Although some of Darwin's original passages are a bit hard to read, Ridley does a great job in summarizing beforehand the aspects of each selection in the introductions to the passages. Ridley also points out some of the truths and misinterpretations made by Darwin without bias.

If you want a compilation of Darwin's important passages in one book, or just a solid introduction to Darwin, his theories and works, this book will be sufficient for everyone.

Rating:
Summary: second edition well worth the read
Review: The Darwin Reader, Second Edition, is well worth the read. I have yet to find a more helpful and interesting compilation of Darwin's works. With the second edition, Ridley expands the book with more information about Darwin's life and gives helpful hints on where to continue research in this field. In my opinion, this book is targeted for the college student with the new preface. A top ten in my library!