Metamorphosis: How Insects Are Changing Our World

by Erica McAlister, Adrian Washbourne

An accessible, beautifully illustrated celebration of insects—and their extraordinary contributions to humankind—from the hosts of the BBC Radio's Metamorphosis

Insects outnumber humans 200 million to one, and their impact on people and the planet boasts a similar magnitude. How Insects Are Changing Our World investigates how modern entomological wonders contribute to the prosperity of humankind.

Featuring more than 80 color illustrations that highlight the impressive variety and vibrancy of everything from beetles to blowflies, the book covers contemporary topics that emphasize the intersections between insects, technology, and the future of the planet,


The study of insects has led to incredible strides in robotics, genetics, forensics, agriculture, medicine, aerospace, artificial intelligence, and biodiversity. Metamorphosis celebrates insect-driven progress and captures its sense of possibility with up-to-date research and scientific storytelling that connects readers to the bugs around them.

Genres: Nonfiction, Science, Biology, Animals, Ecology, Nature, Environment

216 pages, Hardcover

Published April 9, 2024

Reviews

[Bridget Widrig · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this! A good length and not too in depth for someone who doesn’t know much about science of bugs. Interesting and I liked how they included history, especially of women in stem, and bug facts and then tied it all back to what these discoveries mean or could turn into in our world today.

[Abby · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was super interesting! Each chapter was a discovery made my studies on insects. There was a lot on flies which makes sense since the author is a dipterist. She wrote more about forensic entomology in this book, which is definitely something I could be interested in. I like how I’m now able to make connections to different things in the book :)

[Arianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book, entertaining and packed with interesting facts. Will be recommending to my friends and family.

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

A small book that is crawling with fascinating stories about insects and the people that study them. With more than a million species to choose from, the field was made more approachable by an intelligent choice of topics, including insect forensics, insect protein, Drosophila neurogenetics, and butterfly coloration. Some of the most fascinating passages describe how insights from basic scientific studies are being used for applied purposes, such as in the development of microrobots, or in water harvesting. The stories of the individuals who made some of the pioneering studies, often against overwhelming odds and prejudice, are inspirational. The affection the author holds for the subject matter shines through on every page. In this time of massive decline in insect populations and diversity, all of us could benefit from reading this reminder of these fascinating creatures we share the planet with.

[gia · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favourite factual books I have read! I never had been a “buggy” person, and then I started my degree in Zoology. I gained interest into entomology, and then I stumbled across Erica McCallister when she gave a lecture on Hymenoptera. Wow. Just wow. What a lady! This book encapsulates Erica and her fellow researchers perfectly, and it describes and explains the world of entomology in a way that’s relatable. Although some areas require a background of science, it’s not hard to understand. It makes you realise how you take up such a small part of the world, and highlights the effects and impacts other species have had and still do have on today’s society. We would be lost without our fellow insects! I cannot wait for wannabe entomologists/zoologists to have a read!

[The Inquisitive Biologist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Based on the BBC Radio 4 series, this delightful potpourri of insect stories is especially strong on the history of entomology. Read my full review at https://inquisitivebiologist.com/2024...

[Koren Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting niche and occupants with their accompanying fan base 🫶🏻🐞 you really have to love the author and contributors through reading this book such a cool insight into biology, ecosystem, design, engineering, reverse engineering.

[Kally · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this! There was a lot of science in it, but it was written in a very approachable way. I loved the connection of entomology and the innovation of new technologies! there was also quite a bit of interesting history tidbits.

[Geoffrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding inquiry into the amazing aspects of insects that most of us have never heard or even thought of. I highly recommend.

[May Engelhardt · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an insect biology student and researcher, I loved this book. Would highly recommend to researchers and non-scientists alike!