“Exciting and full of insight.” - BILL BRYSON

“A must-read book.” - STEPHEN FRY

“Spectacular.” - CHRIS VAN TULLEKEN

SELECTED FOR THE ROYAL SOCIETY SCIENCE BOOK PRIZE 2024

BOOK OF THE YEAR IN THE SUNDAY TIMES AND NEW SCIENTIST, AND BEST READ IN THE FINANCIAL TIMES

How can science help us live better and longer? A groundbreaking exploration of long life by Nobel Prize-winning biologist Venki Ramakrishnan.

We are in the midst of an exciting revolution in biology. Giant strides are being made in understanding why we age and why some species live longer than others. Will we soon be able to outsmart disease and death and live for a very long time, possibly many times our current lifespan?

“Why We Die” shares the latest scientific understanding of what causes aging and how we might prevent it. Ramakrishnan examines the pioneering efforts to extend human lifespan by modifying our natural biology, highlighting profound questions and unraveling surprising answers along the way.

Does life have an essential biological purpose? What does it mean for all of us if some people start living longer? And how can we increase our chances of living long, healthy, and fulfilling lives?

“An incredible journey.” - SIDDHARTHA MUKHERJEE

“Joyously alive.” - STEVE BRUSATTE

“Scientists don’t come more eminent than Venki Ramakrishnan… stunningly readable… captivating.” - FINANCIAL TIMES

*Featured on BBC Radio 4 Start the Week*

Pages: 320, Year of Publication: 0311, Dimensions: 12.6x12.6cm