Curl up with your inner cuttlefish with Wendy Williams latest endeavor, which pays homage to the critters of the deep once thought monstrous and demonic, and now presented as charming and kindly brainiacs of the sea.
Kraken: The Curious, Exciting, and Slightly Disturbing Science of Squid seeks to balance out all the bad press squid, octopus, and their kin have garnered through the ages – and Williams has crafted such a convincing argument on their behalf, it’s a wonder we humans don’t make every day “Hug a Cephalopod” Day.
Just as much a journalist as a storyteller, Williams gives readers plenty of reasons to be in awe of these fascinating – and still mysterious – creatures that because of their camouflage and bioluminescent abilities are providing scientists with some amazing discoveries. In fact, recent breakthroughs in neurosurgery, obstetrics and even geriatrics can be sourced back to studying, of all things, the inner workings of squids. Who knew?
Williams weaves vignettes about historical encounters with squid and its octopus brethren with stories of today’s scientists who are inspired by these deep sea creatures. Williams gives equal breath of admiration to both critter and man, and in doing so, creates a gripping tale that celebrates the natural world without coming off as a mere wide-eyed delusional animal lover.
Down to Earth, factual and poetic at times, Williams’ words will spark imaginations and create a more compassionate view of these highly intelligent beasts. Once called “stupid” by Aristotle centuries ago, this book is a peace offering to the krakens of the world.
