Kraken: The Curious, Exciting, and Slightly Disturbing Science of Squid
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Book Overview
From the New York Times bestselling and award-winning author of The Horse comes the enthralling examination of one of the most popular and most intriguing animals in the deep blue sea. The ocean is the last remaining source of profound mystery and discovery on Earth with 80 percent of it still largely unexplored; thus, it is of perennial fascination. In Kraken: The Curious, Exciting, and Slightly Disturbing Science of Squid, journalist Wendy Williams introduces one of the ocean's most charismatic, monstrous, enigmatic, and curious inhabitants: the squid. More than just calamari, squid species are fascinatingly odd creatures, with much to teach us about our own species, not to mention the obsessive interest so many of us can't help but have for the enormous beast that is the giant squid, which is quick to attack sperm whales, and even submarines and boats. Williams also examines other equally enthralling cephalopods, including the octopus and the cuttlefish, and explores their otherworldly abilities, such as camouflage and bioluminescence. Kraken takes the reader on a wild ride through the world of squid science and adventure, along the way answering some riddles about how the human brain works, what intelligence really is, and what monsters lie in the deep. Wendy Williams weaves a rich narrative tapestry around her subject, drawing powerfully on the passions and discoveries of scientists, fisherman, and squid enthusiasts around the world. "Abounds with both ancient legend and modern science." --Discover magazine
Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0810984660
ISBN13:9780810984660
Release Date:July 2022
Publisher:Harry N. Abrams
Length:224 Pages
Weight:0.90 lbs.
Dimensions:0.6" x 5.5" x 8.2"
Customer Reviews
1 rating
We have more in common than we think
Published by SB , 2 months ago
Early portions of the book describe technical scientific data that was off-putting to this non-scientist. Once that was established, though, it described more qualities and history of cephalopods (squid, octopuses, etc.) that was far more interesting and appealing, including an extraordinary bond between a retired scientist, Wilson Menashi, and a giant Pacific octopus (GPO), Truman, at the New England Aquarium. The author, Wendy Williams, describes the problem-solving behavior and personalities of several specific cephalopods that points to individuals with distinct patterns, preferences, and needs. Most scientists and other people who interact with these animals characterize them as highly intelligent. She also raises the limitations of accurately gauging the depth of intelligence of species so different from ours, and pursues the questions this raises in depth that I found interesting and insightful. I gave this book 4 stars instead of 5 because the lengthy technical/scientific section had me wondering if I had purchased a book that lacked content that I would find interesting, but once Williams moved beyond the technical, my curiosity was rewarded.
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