Feathers: The Evolution of a Natural Miracle

By Thor Hanson

Book Overview

One of America's great nature-writers explores the magic and science of feathers.

"An illuminating study of an evolutionary marvel." ―Economist

Winner of the John Burroughs Medal

Feathers are an evolutionary marvel: aerodynamic, insulating, beguiling. From flying dinosaurs to showgirls on the Las Vegas Strip, their story spans hundreds of millions of years--yet has never been fully told. In Feathers, biologist Thor Hanson details a sweeping natural history of how feathers have been used to soar, attract, and adorn through time. Applying the research of paleontologists, ornithologists, biologists, engineers, and even art historians, he asks: What are feathers? How did they evolve? What do they mean to us?

Enlivened by Hanson's field experiences and wide-ranging research, Feathers is a captivating account of the human fascination with this most enchanting natural wonder.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0465028780
• ISBN13: 9780465028788
• Release Date: July 2012
• Publisher: Basic Books
• Length: 352 Pages
• Weight: 0.94 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 5.4" x 8.0"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher

Customer Reviews

Wow

Anyone who wants to know practically anything about feathers should read this book. You will get to know SO MANY interesting facts and history. The author keeps you engaged while sharing all the information too. If you are into birds this is the book for you.

Feathers is an amazing read !!

Anyone would love this book is interested natural history but especially birders!!! My husband and I both loved it.