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donnawr1's review against another edition
5.0
A very interesting book that has changed how I look at the multitude of life in and around me. Microbes allow higher species to exist in more complex forms and are more often beneficial than detrimental to those they co-exist with. I like the theme developed of the tension between the microbes and higher life forms when they co-exist... something different that my previous understandings of synergy. So many examples highlighted that it allows you to see the rule rather than the exceptions. I like that the author was clear where there are areas where the research is confusing, including research on the intestinal microbial flora as it is thought to influence human biology. Each study produces different results and it is clear much more work needs to be done before we can understand these interactions well. This is definitely a growing area of research and it will be interesting to see where it goes in the future.
tmatlin's review against another edition
5.0
Fascinating book — has forever transformed the way I understand microbes and our microbiome.
valentipeter's review against another edition
adventurous
informative
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
4.5
moonwilt's review against another edition
5.0
yes this did feel a little bit like being back in a lecture but i am enjoying just. enjoying learning about things again so thats v cool
covered lots of ground from the basics of microbes to v cool examples of their impacts in human health and nature, and the potential ways they can be harnessed in future — all in a v engaging, conversational way and with the odd burst of humour throughout
4.5 stars from me and my ~39 trillion microbial cells
covered lots of ground from the basics of microbes to v cool examples of their impacts in human health and nature, and the potential ways they can be harnessed in future — all in a v engaging, conversational way and with the odd burst of humour throughout
4.5 stars from me and my ~39 trillion microbial cells
nancyadelman's review against another edition
1.0
This is a book about microbiology; about the microscopic life that is found in and on every living being on this Earth of ours. The author seems to really know his way around a microbe, but I am sorry to report that I could not summon much enthusiasm for this flavor of science. Though the details about Leewenhoek were interesting, this really wasn't a book for me.
apricotw's review against another edition
4.0
- The microbiome is a very fashionable topic. Yong takes a refreshingly scientific approach. The extent of symbiosis between creatures and their microbiome becomes very apparent - from squid‘s use of glowing bacteria, to the human digestive system. What becomes clear is that the question of what constitutes a self or individual is not at all clear - there are good reasons to think of a holobiont (an entity which includes a microbiome) rather than just an individual. The book is readable, but quite technical - and tends to have a few rather too many irritating adjectives. Despite this, it’s very worth reading.