The premiere of a female version of Steve Jones – charming, literarily cultivated, clear and concise. A lively, richly illustrated book about the science of human survival.

How do humans survive in extreme conditions of heat, cold, depth, speed, and altitude? This book explores the limits of human survival and the physiological adaptations that allow us to exist under extreme conditions. In humanity's struggle to survive in the harshest environments, the knowledge provided by physiology, the “logic of life,” is crucial.

What causes mountain sickness? Why is it possible to reach the top of Everest without supplemental oxygen but to be at risk if an airplane suddenly depressurizes at that altitude? Why can't astronauts stand without fainting when they return to Earth? Why do human divers suffer from decompression sickness, but sperm whales do not? Will men always be able to run faster than women? Why do penguins not get frostbite?

Pages: 352, Dimensions: 12.9x12.9cm