Parasite Rex (with a New Epilogue): Inside the Bizarre World of Nature'sMost Dangerous Creatures - Softcover

Zimmer

Softcover

ISBN 10: 074320011X ISBN 13: 9780743200110

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd, 2002

Synopsis

For decades parasites were the pariahs of science. Only recently have biologists begun to appreciate that these diverse and complex organisms are the most highly evolved life forms on earth. In this work, Carl Zimmer takes the reader on a tour of the strange and bizzare world that parasites inhabit, and recounts the voyages of these wonders of creation. Parasites can: rewrite DNA; rewire the brain; genetically engineer viruses as weapons; and turn healthy hosts into the living dead. This book follows researchers in parasitology as they attempt to penetrate the mysteries of these omnipotent creatures who control evolution, ecxosystems, and perhaps the future of the human race.

About this title

Review:

Michael Harris Los Angeles Times A model of liveliness and clarity...a book capable of changing how we see the world.

Mark Ridley The New Scientist A nonstop delight...Zimmer is a colorful writer, and takes full advantage of the macabre natural history of parasites.

Kevin Padian The New York Times With Parasite Rex, Zimmer proves himself as fine a science essayist as we have.

Susan Adams Forbes Zimmer is such an accomplished, vivid writer that he is able to weave these revolting beasts into an engrossing story that you will read to the last page.

Book Description:

The bizarre and ghoulishly fascinating world of parasites, revealed by the acclaimed author of Evolution.

About this edition

• Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd
• Publication date: 2002
• ISBN 10: 074320011X
• ISBN 13: 9780743200110
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 320