The Reluctant Mr. Darwin - David Quammen

There are dozens of accounts of Charles Darwin’s life, but this one is our favorite. David Quammen succeeds in reconstructing a detailed, engaging account of Darwin’s life and work, but what sets his account apart is the depth of questioning around the famous scientist’s motives, insecurities, relationships, and worldview. It is a remarkably relatable and humanizing account of Darwin’s inner conflict while trying to reconcile his scientific observations with his family and culture, his aversion to the cut-throat personalities in 19th century British academia, and his struggle to balance his passion for discovery, commitment to his wife and children, and personal health. You’ll take away a greater understanding of Darwin’s theories and the turmoil that galvanized them.