The Greatest Show on Earth
The Greatest Show on Earth
Book Brief
496
Book • Nonfiction
2009
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
First published in 2009, The Greatest Show on Earth: The Evidence for Evolution by British evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins provides an easy-to-understand guide to biological evolution and defends it against creationist arguments. The book describes how natural selection functions, links all life through an evolutionary tree, and rebuts common creationist claims about the age of Earth and the nature of life's origins.
Informative
Challenging
Inspirational
Mysterious
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
56,884 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Richard Dawkins' The Greatest Show on Earth offers a compelling, well-argued defense of evolution through rich, accessible prose and abundant supporting evidence. Critics appreciate its educational value and clarity. However, some find the tone occasionally condescending and argue it rehashes well-known concepts. Suitable for both newcomers and informed readers alike.
Who Should Read The Greatest Show on Earth?
A reader captivated by evolutionary biology will appreciate The Greatest Show on Earth by Richard Dawkins. Fans of The Selfish Gene by Dawkins and Your Inner Fish by Neil Shubin will find Dawkins's clear explanations and compelling arguments particularly engaging. Suitable for both science enthusiasts and those new to the topic.
56,884 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Greatest Show on Earth was first published on September 3, 2009, and has since been translated into several languages, allowing it to reach a global audience.
Richard Dawkins uses the "trainers' test" metaphor from horse racing to illustrate the concept of natural selection effectively throughout the book.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
The book was shortlisted for the 2010 Royal Society Prize for Science Books, highlighting its impact and recognition in the field of science literature.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
496
Book • Nonfiction
2009
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!