This is the latest in a series of 'pedia' books, all of which have been delightful. The person who came up with the idea for this series deserves a huge round of applause from the publisher, and sincere thanks from us, the readers.
They really are enchanting, filled with facts, whimsy and humour on every page. At times this volume is downright hilarious! Adam Taor has done a fantastic job, but it would be churlish to not praise equally the substantial contribution of Nathalie Garcia, whose exquisite, anatomically precise drawings measurably enhance the text.
It is especially pleasing to me that Taor takes us on an etymological journey with each entry, explaining how the various names came to be, sometimes in bizarre ways.
The book follows the now familiar format with entries from A to Z. Some of the headings alone evoke inner titters; who can remain immune to "Pouch of Douglas (rectouterine pouch): How the mother of all hoaxers conceived an immaculate deception", or, "Cremaster: How testicles deal with the ups and downs of life."
C'mon, you know that one gripped you!
How about, "Philtrum: How there's love and lust on our lips."
The text for each topic usually begins with an amusing anecdote and ends by circling back to that anecdote, exhibiting considerable writing skill, and an immense reserve of trivia!
Rest assured, however, that the anatomical information provided is informative and accurate, and is only made easier by the humorous presentation. Science does not always have to be serious.
It is not lost on me that I have spent a lifetime familiarizing myself with the anatomy of birds and other organisms, yet remained woefully ignorant of human anatomy.
This little volume changed that!
If a book can furnish a couple of hours of pleasant reading, while simultaneously delivering a cornucopia of knowledge, it seems to me that's a winning combination by any standards.
Bodypedia: A Brief Compendium of Human Anatomical Curiosities - Princeton University Press
Adam Taor
Hardcover - US$17.95 - ISBN: 9780691256788
216 pages - 4.5 x 6.75 inches (11.25 x 16.875 cm)
67 black-and-white illustrations
Publication date: 17 June, 2025
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Definitely a winning combination.
ReplyDeleteHari OM
ReplyDeleteLOL - even as one who had to learn anatomy and physiology to a medical degree, this would be fun to have around! I am going to have to give my wishlist a bit of a declutter and find space for it! YAM xx
You are a medical doctor?
Delete...a bit over my head!
ReplyDeleteNot at all, Tom.
DeleteIt does look like a fascinating book.
ReplyDeleteSorry, I am to busy reading a Fictional Novel about a woman who starts an animal rescue, and her trials and tribulations doing it. Ha Ha.. It is a great idea and for those who love to learn, is perfect. the only anatomy I look at is the free one on line that lets me click on a spot that hurts on my body and tells me what it is, and helps me self diagnose what is wrong. Enjoy! I know you love it... if I ever sit by you on a plane we can exchange books and see what happens, so I will not talk you to death... ha ha love you
ReplyDeleteQuite an interesting book!
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like an interesting book, and certainly a fun one too, David. It must be fun reviewing so many different books. Hugs and kisses, Marit
ReplyDeleteI love that this book teaches with humor! Thanks for sharing;)
ReplyDelete