An Intimate History of Evolution: The Story of the Huxley Family

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 576 pages
Publication date: 06 July 2023
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

SHORTLISTED FOR THE CUNDILL HISTORY PRIZE


A masterpiece of biography, this vivid account of a family at the heart of some of the great cultural shifts of the modern era has been acclaimed by John Gray of the New Statesman as "a brilliant piece of work."


The Guardian notes that the Huxley family, spanning four generations, has left an indelible mark on British intellectual life, offering a gateway into the entire realm of British thought.


In his early twenties, Thomas Henry Huxley found himself in a dire situation. He was penniless, depressed, and stranded in the Coral Sea on a seemingly endless survey mission aboard HMS Rattlesnake. Yet, against all odds, he and Henrietta Heathorn would return to London and go on to establish one of the most remarkable intellectual and scientific dynasties of their age.


The Huxley family, through four generations, profoundly impacted how we perceive ourselves, both as individuals and as a species. They pursued diverse careers as scientists, novelists, mystics, filmmakers, poets, and public lecturers, educators, and explainers. Their expertise lay in the realm of evolution, but their greatest subject was, perhaps, themselves. Alison Bashford's captivating and innovative new book intertwines the Huxleys' momentous public achievements with their private triumphs and tragedies. The result is a rich tapestry of history, revealing not only the history of a family but also the history of humanity as it grapples with its place in nature.


This book offers a unique perspective, showcasing how much we owe, for better or worse, to the relentless curiosity, self-absorption, and enthusiasms of a small, peculiar group of men and women. It is history, but it reads like a novel, with the engaging intimacy of a literary masterpiece. Bashford skillfully blends intellectual history with the story of four generations, creating a literary tour de force that will captivate readers of all ages and backgrounds.


Professor Jim Secord, author of Visions of Science, hailed the book as "history with the engaging intimacy of a novel."


In conclusion, The Huxley Family: A Biography is a remarkable work that delves into the lives of a remarkable family and their profound impact on the world. Through its pages, we gain a deeper understanding of the Huxleys' contributions to science, literature, and culture, as well as their personal struggles and triumphs. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in history, literature, and the human condition, and it serves as a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141992228