Bite
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Embarking on a captivating exploration through the natural, scientific, and cultural history of teeth, ‘Bite’ by Bill Schutt left me utterly enthralled. This book is not just about our pearly whites, but it delves into the fascinating world of three-inch fang blennies, ancient crocodiles, and even Neanderthals. The author masterfully argues that teeth have been instrumental in the long-term success of vertebrates, allowing them to adapt and thrive across a myriad of environments.

From defensive weapons to tools for softening tough fibers and animal hides, Schutt reveals the multifaceted roles teeth have played throughout history. The razor-sharp teeth of vampire bats and the strategic use of false teeth by ancient Etruscans to project status are just a few intriguing examples.

What truly sets ‘Bite’ apart is its ability to provide insights into our past, present, and perhaps even future. The author sheds light on how the study of fossilized teeth has yielded valuable information about evolution, famine, war, and disease. Schutt’s signature wit and humor shine throughout, making this book a delightful read.

If you’re a fan of authors like Mary Roach, Merlin Sheldrake, or Ed Yong, I strongly recommend ‘Bite.’ This popular science gem is sure to captivate readers with its unique blend of biology, history, and cultural exploration.

  • From three-inch fang blennies to thirty-foot prehistoric crocodiles, from gaboon vipers to Neanderthals,
  • Bite
  • is a fascinating journey through the natural, scientific, and cultural history of something right in front ofor inour faces: teeth.
  • In
  • Bite
  • , zoologist Bill Schutt makes a surprising case: it is teeth that are responsible for the long-term success of vertebrates. The appearance of teeth, roughly half a billion years ago, was an adaptation that allowed animals with backbones, such as fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, dinosaurs and mammalsincluding usto chow down in pretty much every conceivable environment. And its not just food. Tusks and fangs have played crucial roles as defensive weaponsglimpsing the upper canines of snarling dogs is all it takes to know that teeth are an efficient means of aggression. Vampire bats use their razor-sharp teeth to obtain a widespread but generally untappable resource: blood. Early humans employed their teeth as tools to soften tough fibers and animal hides. Our teeth project information and social statusthe ancient Etruscans were the first to wear tooth bling, and its doubtful that George Washington would have been elected president without the false teeth he wore. So much of what we know about life on this planet has come from the study of fossilized teeth, which have provided information not only about evolution but also about famine, war, and disease. In his signature witty style, the author of
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  • shows us how our continued understanding of teeth may help us humans through current and future crises, from Alzheimers disease to mental health issues.
  • Bite
  • is popular science at its best and will appeal to readers of Mary Roach, Merlin Sheldrake, and Ed Yong.
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