Fascinating, surprising and informative, this book about the human body has Bill Bryson’s trademark dry humour. Having read several of his books before, I expected this one to be a great read and I wasn’t disappointed.
Travelling through the organs and systems of the body, Bryson explains how they work, throwing in some excellent anecdotes, discovery stories, quotes from experts and amusing similes. While not an exhaustive survey (that would require an even bigger book), most things you’d want to know are in there. I particularly like the inclusion of medical science’s unsung heroes, the people who should be well-known today for their pioneering work. There are some moments which will make you wince, unless you have a very strong stomach. I also like the myth busting and Bryson’s sheer sense of wonder at the miracle that is the human body. Some of the experiments recounted are shocking, others amusing, but all are interesting to read about.
Recommended if you want to learn some surprising facts to tell your friends.
First published in 2019.
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