Though a fan of science in its many forms, I am much more familiar with the early days of Christian Biblical history than with scientific history of the human species. I have studied it, but the ground seems to be slowly shifting in this realm. Böhme details these shifts in this work as he summarizes the evidence over the last 20-30 years. She does so through a lucid, suspenseful, and engaging manner. She questions many older theories through generally acknowledged facts and does not appear to have an overriding agenda.
Genetic analysis is beginning to teach us much about early humans and human-like species. The story that is emerging is related here (and it’s not a finished story yet). Humans, Neanderthals, and Denisovans likely all shared DNA (that is, interbred) until differences united in what came to be known as the species of Homo sapiens. Those species likely came out of a “savannah belt” that included not just Africa but also Eurasia. Thought by thought and concept by concept, Böhme unpacks how we have come to grasp this new story. She does so through finely examining the data from find after find and skillfully integrating it in with existing theory. (That is, she proceeds like a scientist should.)
The translation is clear and flows well. Aside from direct references to Germany, it’s hard to tell that this work was originally composed in the German language. It is quite accessible to general audiences that have an interest in science. It doesn’t bog down in needless detail but keeps perspective on the big picture. The illustrations – particularly the maps – teach a lot.
Paleontology is fascinating because like religion, it can tell us where we came from and thus where we can go. Ideally, it does so in a non-ideologically driven manner, and Böhme represents this field well in this regard. If you’re curious about knowing the latest science on where humans came from, this book provides a compelling investigation. As with all science, it may not contain the final word, but it summarizes our best guess at present. I’m glad Böhme’s research has led my curiosity in digging through the facts as she has done with her hands through some of the finds.
Ancient Bones: Unearthing the Astonishing New Story of How We Became Human
By Madelaine Böhme with Rüdiger Braun and Florian Breier; translated by Jane Billinghurst
Copyright (c) 2019
Greystone Books
ISBN13 9781771647519
Page Count: 321
Genre: Paleontology; Science
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