A Natural History of the Senses
by Diane Ackerman
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Book Reviews of A Natural History of the Senses
Book Review: Poetry and Science
Summary: 5 Stars
When I first read Diane Ackerman's book it opened my eyes, just as these other reviews testify. It does seem to be a book people either love or hate (I have some friends who thought it was sentimental babbling) but that doesn't change how extravagantly Ackerman uses language itself to convey the lush world of the senses. I teach a creative writing course at SFSU and I use the book to promote both that poetic description and the possibilities for experience and awareness the book evokes. An excellent example of the ways poetry can be used to explain science and experience.Book Review: An intriguing read
Summary: 4 Stars
Diane Ackerman has crafted another stimulating book with her trademark wit, eloquence and keen sense for adventure. She weaves together trivia, science, history with her own travels. This is not a book that you will sit down and finish in an afternoon, rather one that you would read morsel by morsel and savor. So why 4 stars instead of 5? Despite being such an enjoyable read, some of the material seems to be rehashed from her book "Rarest of the Rare". Not necessarily a bad thing, but I just finished reading that book before this one and found myself wanting to skip ahead.Book Review: Beyond the book
Summary: 5 Stars
She's an amazing writer. Her artistic, sensual passion wins the day, though she warms up to good science, too. If you enjoy all things Ackerman, or if you are especiallly interested in the senses, then you'll love Nova's "Mystery of the Senses." This is a 5-part documentary featuring each of the major senses. It is based on this book, primarily. It is narrated by Ackerman, and you'll find her (and her glorious '80s era hair) taking mudbaths, sitting by a stream, etc. The video set, like this book, bridges the gap between sensuality and science; experience and explanation.Book Review: Well Done
Summary: 4 Stars
Do not confuse this book for science or hard fact. 'A Natural History of the Senses' is a well done book of lyrical prose that is meant to be relaxed with and enjoyed. Diane Ackerman is quite possibly a lyrical stylist that, much like any past writer, uses the conciousness of her time to bring alive the beliefs, feelings, and concerns that she and others face in their lifetime. Using delightful and fascinating information integrated with insight and stunning language, she makes one become more aware of the senses that we sometimes take for granted.Book Review: An All Time Top Favorite!
Summary: 5 Stars
One of my very top all time favorites. Ackerman's writing is fantastic, and the subject is incredible. Cannot recommend highly enough-- I even own multiple loaner-copies! Before reading this, a book review would be about the story, characters, content. After reading..all that along with the texture of the print on the paper, the color of the cover, the smell of the ink, the quality of light while you were reading.. it opens your eyes and appreciation to a much richer world where all your senses are in play, all the time! A MUST READ.