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The Wolf Within

The Astonishing Evolution of the Wolf into Man’s Best Friend

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The Wolf Within

By: Professor Bryan Sykes
Narrated by: Charles Armstrong
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About this listen

The genetic history of the dog is a sensational example of the co-evolution of two species, man and wolf, to each other’s mutual benefit. But how did this ancient partnership begin? To answer this question, Professor Bryan Sykes identifies tantalising clues in the recently mapped genetic makeup of both species.

Sykes paints a vivid picture of the dog as an ancient and essential ally. While undoubtedly it was the mastery of fire, language and agriculture that propelled Homo sapiens from a scarce, medium-sized primate to the position we enjoy today, Sykes crucially credits a fourth element for this success: the transformation of the wolf into the multi-purpose helpmate that is the dog. Drawing upon archaeology, history and genetics, Sykes shows how humans evolved to become the dominant species on Earth, but only with the help of our canine companions.

©2018 Professor Bryan Sykes (P)2018 HarperCollins Publishers Animals Biological Sciences Dogs Evolution Evolution & Genetics Genetics Outdoors & Nature Pets & Animal Care Science Wolf

Critic Reviews

"A terrific book, written with humour and humanity." (Sunday Times)

"An engrossing, bubbly read, a boy's own adventure in scientific storytelling that fairly bounces along...a thumping good read." (Observer)

"Sykes's wonderfully clear book should be compulsory reading for politicians...an eye-opening guide to the new branch of science that is changing the human race's view of itself." (Literary Review)

All stars
Most relevant  
Really interesting, packed with information but pleasant to listen to. Will be looking for more from this author

Fascinating study of wolves, dogs and humans

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I thought I was signing up to getting a gene mutation by gene mutation account of how wolves got turned into dogs. Maybe how they spread from their initial domestication in Eastern Europe to all over the world. I am from Southern Africa for instance my ancestors kept dogs before contact with Europeans how did that get to us if we didn’t domesticate them independently? None of that. The interviews with dog owners felt like padding to make the book longer and include the authors wife in the story. More hard science with less fluff would’ve been appreciated.

Disappointed

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