A review by straaawbs
How Zoologists Organize Things: The Art of Classification by David Bainbridge

5.0

Really beautiful book! ‘Art’ is the operative word in the title - its packed with lots and lots of colour illustrations, and it’s a quick read. This is definitely more of a history of classification rather than a guide as to how classifications are made today. It gives a fascinating overview of how philosophers and scientists organised the natural world from ancient times right up to the present day. The bulk of the book is comprised of illustrations and diagrams, accompanied by short explanations. Felt like looking through a museum. I really can’t fault this book - it was a perfect combination of my interests in science, nature, art, and history. However, if you’re looking for a guide on how to actually classify species then this won’t be the best book.