Whales are among the largest, most intelligent, and deepest-living species that have ever existed on our planet. We have hunted these giant creatures for thousands of years, and they have become symbols in our mythologies. At the same time, they fill us with awe, horror, and love – yet, we know very little about them.

Whales usually enter our consciousness only when they die, struck by a ship or washed ashore. They evolved from land-dwelling, dog-like animals into creatures that move like fish, breathe like us, can weigh up to 300,000 pounds, live 200 years, and roam entire ocean basins. However, despite centuries of observing whales, we know little about their evolutionary past.

Paleontologist Nick Pyenson takes us to the ends of the earth and into the most cutting-edge research on whales, seeking answers to the biggest questions about these graceful giants. His rich narrative takes us deep into the unmatched fossil collection of the Smithsonian, to the icy waters of Antarctica, and the barren desert of Chile, where scientists race against time to document the largest whale fossil site in the world.

"Spying on Whales" is a brilliant story of scientific discovery that brings readers closer to the most mysterious and beloved animals of all time. Pages: 336, Dimensions: 12.9x12.9cm