Adrian Barnett, contributor
This book's aim is to put biogeography - the study of the distribution of biodiversity over time - centre stage as a unifying principle of modern biology, establishing it as both a key discipline that led to modern evolutionary theory and as an elucidator of evolution's processes.
It succeeds nobly. Along the way, Dennis McCarthy reveals fascinating facts, including the location of the ancient map that says "Here be Dragons".
There are a few historical wobbles, but the science is firm and buttressed with a pleasant combination of painstaking detail and infectious enthusiasm.
Even McCarthy's lack of references and his slightly strident anti-creationist tone cannot detract from the fresh approach he brings to an aspect of evolutionary theory that has long been neglected.
Here Be Dragons by Dennis McCarthy
Oxford University Press, $29.95/£16.99