I had no idea what to expect from this book. So many have an opinion on Darwin but apparently few ever get around to reading what he's written.

This book is the work of a great naturalist. I was surprised time and time again at the level of detail and evidence Darwin provided for his theory. He must have spent countless hours observing, analyzing, and pondering the natural world. He clearly knew what he was up against, and rises to the challenge in this book.

There is so much to examine in this book that it will take several readings and then some to get it all. I tried to read carefully and slowly, but once I lost momentum I found it hard to dive back into the book where I left off which is why it took me so long to finish it. This book is not for the casual reader. Be prepared to read and digest and reread and question everything. My brain enjoyed the exercise.