Darwin's Backyard
How Small Experiments Led to a Big Theory

A nice biographical accounting of Charles Darwin, centered specifically around the scientific experiments that eventually cumulated in his theory of natural selection. Each chapter is augmented with do-it-yourself instructions on how to conduct your own at-home experiments—complete with mailing addr......more

This book, focused on Charles Darwin's scientific work, is filled with suggested experiments for the reader to try, based on those conducted by the famous scientist himself. I didn't try any, but I appreciated this DYI approach to convey how Darwin worked toward his signature theory. This book also......more

I would give this book 3.5 stars if it were an option. The information in the book is extremely worthwhile (at least if one is a biology teacher like myself). I loved learning more about the breadth of Darwin’s research interests and loved that the book includes suggestions for investigations along......more

This is a scientific biography of Darwin that emphasizes his multitude of experiments mostly conducted in his home and on his property. There are 10 chapters, each one discussing a particular interest of Darwin’s and using excerpts of his journals and correspondence. Areas discussed include Darwin’s......more

It is almost magical. I watched a BOOK TV presentation by James T. Costa, the author of “Darwin's Backyard: How Small Experiments Led to a Big Theory.” This leads me to purchase the book. After Darwin’s HMS Beagle excursion which is also worth reading about, Darwin pretty much settled down and was a h......more