Charles Darwin (Lifelines) - Softcover

Most of the space in this large-format volume is devoted to an illustrated, imagined diary purportedly written during Charles Darwin’s famous voyage aboard the HMS Beagle. Based on historical accounts but written in the voice of a fictional cabin boy, the story comments on Darwin’s personality and pursuits along with matters such as practical jokes played on board. Large, brightly colored line-and-wash pictures appear throughout the diary section, along with smaller photos of period artifacts. Illustrated mainly with drawings and photos, the last third of the book offers straightforward discussions of topics such as the ship, the route of the voyage, life at sea, Darwin’s later life and work, and other notable nineteenth-century scientists. A glossary is appended. The book’s most striking feature is the thick front cover, which features an iridescent cut-out picture of a butterfly displayed beneath an embedded circle of hard, clear plastic. Recommended for larger collections. Grades 3-6. --Carolyn Phelan