The Little Book of Shells
Gems of Nature
by M. G. Harasewych and Fabio Moretzsohn
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Pub Date 26 May 2020 | Archive Date 25 Jun 2020
Quarto Publishing Group – Ivy Press | Ivy Press
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Description
Dip into the intriguing world of shells with this beautifully illustrated guide to 75 weird and wonderful examples.
When we pick up a shell on the beach, we notice its beautiful shape or attractive colours, but how often do we consider what it tells us about the creature that made it, and the evolutionary journey that led to its particular characteristics? This book introduces you to the extraordinary variety of forms into which molluscs mould their shells, and the impressive types of external protection they have developed for a range of habitats.
Intricate structures shown here range from the tapering whorls of a triangular nutmeg to the spectacular spines of the Venus Comb Murex, from the spiral chambers of a nautilus to the frilly ribs of the wedding cake venus. These distinctive features of shells not only tell us about their genealogy, but also serve as an archive of the animal’s life, indicating its size, habitat and growth pattern. And this gallery of pearl oysters, periwinkles, cowries and many more illustrates how shells can be as delicate as porcelain, coloured with iridescent pastels, or boldly patterned with a glossy sheen.
The Little Book of Shells combines stunning images with fascinating facts in a handy format.
Available Editions
| EDITION | Hardcover |
| ISBN | 9780711252691 |
| PRICE | £12.99 (GBP) |
Featured Reviews
Vivienne O, Reviewer
My thanks to Quarto Publishing Group - Ivy Press for a temporary digital edition via NetGalley of ‘The Little Book of Shells’ by M. G. Harasewych and Fabio Moretzsohn in exchange for an honest review.
This book is intended as an introduction to the extraordinary variety of forms into which molluscs mould their shells. It is oriented towards science and marine biology, stressing their evolutionary journeys. Both authors are academics, who have researched marine molluscs for many years and collaborated on other works about shells.
After an introductory section, the bulk of the book is taken up with a listing of 75 shells accompanied by images, mostly derived from classical iconographies. These listings contain brief details about each shell and small world maps that pinpoint the distribution and habitat of each one. There are even details of feeding habits. When considering shells I have to admit I never think of them as having feeding habits and yet they do.
Following the listings are two indexes: one for common names and the other for scientific names.
This is very much a book to dip into and it would make a lovely gift for a shell lover or for someone interested in learning more about these fascinating creatures.
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