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A Brief History of the Female Body: An Evolutionary Look at How and Why the Female Form Came to Be Hardcover – Picture Book, August 15, 2023

by Dr. Deena Emera (Author)
4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 47 ratings
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From breasts and orgasms to periods, pregnancies, and menopause―A Brief History of the Female Body is a fascinating science book explaining the mysteries of the female body through an evolutionary lens.

Let's face it: The female body is an enigma. For teenagers first experiencing their periods, the monthly arrival of mood swings and cramps can be agonizing and inconvenient. With pregnancy―perhaps the most miraculous of bodily events―comes countless potential complications, including high blood pressure, diabetes, premature birth, and postpartum depression. And menopause is equally mystifying. Why do females lose their fertility over time and experience the notorious side effects―like hot flashes, weight gain, and hair loss―while males maintain their fertility forever?

Evolutionary geneticist and educator Dr. Deena Emera has spent much of her career studying the evolution of female reproduction. A Brief History of the Female Body draws on her vast expertise as a biologist, her experience as a mother of four children, and her love of teaching to look far into our evolutionary past, illuminating how and, more importantly, why the female form has transformed over millions of years and its effects on women's health.

Previous page
  1. Print length
    368 pages
  2. Language
    English
  3. Publisher
    Sourcebooks
  4. Publication date
    August 15, 2023
  5. Dimensions
    6.25 x 1.17 x 9.25 inches
  6. ISBN-10
    1728249406
  7. ISBN-13
    978-1728249407
  8. See all details
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From the Publisher

A fascinating look at the mysteries of the female body through an evolutionary lens

"Fascinating and hugely enjoyable." - Lisa Mosconi

A uniquely enjoyable gynecologic journey of discovery." - Jonathan Resiman

"A must-read for women of all ages." - Vivian W. Pinn

Editorial Reviews

Review

"In this excellent and engaging book, Emera probes the mysteries and mythology of the female body both through the eyes of an evolutionary biologist and a mother. Her delightful prose and keen insights make for a uniquely enjoyable gynecologic journey of discovery." ― Jonathan Reisman, M.D., author of The Unseen Body: A Doctor’s Journey Through the Hidden Wonders of Human Anatomy

"Understanding ourselves begins with understanding our biology. In this important book, Deena Emera guides us on a journey through the past, present, and future of the female body. It’s a story with profound implications not just for women, but for all of us." ― Jamie Metzl, author of Hacking Darwin: Genetic Engineering and the Future of Humanity

"At last! Now that women like Deena Emera are studying evolutionary biology and medicine we get to read books like A Brief History of the Female Body. Deena provides timely and well-informed summaries and discussion of topics women care about within the spheres that actually matter to us." ― Sarah Blaffer Hrdy, author of Mother Nature: A History of Mothers, Infants, and Natural Selection

"A Brief History of the Female Body is a wonderful book giving insights into the biological struggle between mother and child, why you have breasts, orgasms, periods, and menopause. This is a must read for every woman and those who love her." ― Louann Brizendine M.D., New York Times bestselling author of The Female Brain and The Upgrade

"In this fascinating and hugely enjoyable book, Dr. Emera explores the deep past to shed light on the present and future of women’s health." ― Lisa Mosconi, PhD, New York Times bestselling author of The XX Brain

"Deena Emera generously shares her personal perspectives as a scientist and a woman, telling her story and that of those living in female bodies in a conversational style peppered with humor, making a significant contribution to our understanding of the complexity of the female human body and its evolutionary origins. An educational and enjoyable read!" ― Nancy Fugate Woods, BSN, PhD, FAAN, Professor Emerita, University of Washington School of Nursing

"Evolutionary biologist Deena Emera uses both her academic acumen and personal experience to reflect on significant basics of female experience―periods, breasts, orgasms, pregnancy, and menopause. Not only are her reflections valuable to anyone interested in women’s health as an important subset of women’s studies, but they can literally assist the reader in putting her personal experience into perspective." ― Angela Barron McBride, PhD, RN, author and Distinguished Professor Emerita, Indiana University

"In A Brief History of the Female Body, Dr. Emera addresses many questions that women raise to better understand their bodies and their health, making this engaging book a must-read for women of all ages, including professionals who care about providing quality health care and understanding of bodily transitions for women." ― Vivian W. Pinn, M.D., women’s health research advocate

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Sourcebooks (August 15, 2023)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 368 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1728249406
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1728249407
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 6.9 ounces
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.25 x 1.17 x 9.25 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 47 ratings

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Customer reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5 out of 5
47 global ratings
Unraveling the Mysteries of Evolution
5 Stars
Unraveling the Mysteries of Evolution
This book masterfully blends biology, anthropology, and sociology to provide a comprehensive look at the complexities and wonders of the female body.Starting from the earliest days of human evolution, the author navigates through millennia of biological and societal changes to explain not just how but why the female body has evolved in the ways that it has. With a keen eye for detail and a narrative that is both engaging and informative, the book challenges and enlightens readers about the myriad factors influencing female anatomy and physiology.What sets this work apart is its dedication to weaving scientific insights with cultural and historical contexts, offering a holistic view of the female body beyond the biological determinism. Dr. Emeraaddresses pivotal moments in history and their impact on women's health, rights, and roles in society, making it clear that the story of the female body is deeply intertwined with the story of humanity itself.'A Brief History of the Female Body' is not just an academic text; it's a compelling story of resilience, adaptation, and beauty. It encourages readers to rethink preconceived notions about gender and health, highlighting the importance of understanding our past to navigate the present and future of women's bodily autonomy and empowerment.For anyone interested in the intersection of science, history, and gender studies, this book offers invaluable insights and a rich narrative that is both enlightening and inspiring. It's a must-read for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the female body and its place in the natural and social world.
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Top reviews from the United States

mvc
5.0 out of 5 stars well written and enlightening
Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2023
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This book left me in awe of who we are as humans, and of course especially as women: biologically fascinating, complex, adaptable, and for the most part, extremely well planned out. Dr. Emera lays it all out in a beautiful and accessible way.

As you read on, you realize how much there is to take in and consider about "how and why the female form came to be"… This felt like a fabulous intro. It will make you pause, and think, and go “wow, this is remarkable”.

I loved the book and I’m sure you will too!
6 people found this helpful
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Kindle Customer
4.0 out of 5 stars Richly rewarding
Reviewed in the United States on April 19, 2024
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This is a very interesting, detailed book. For those who want a cursory overview, this is not for you. But for those who think that female biology is worthy of study, you will be richly rewarded. What didn’t I know? Oh, so much, so very, very much.
One person found this helpful
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Lauren
5.0 out of 5 stars A must read for all women
Reviewed in the United States on February 26, 2024
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This book is an insightful and educational read that covers some of the most important aspects of women's health today. A must read for anyone trying to learn more about the way their body works, and how they can improve their daily well-being.
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Rita Novella
5.0 out of 5 stars A riveting, essential, accessible book to gift or recommend d to all the women in your life!
Reviewed in the United States on October 26, 2023
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As a busy working mom, I don’t make enough time for reading. But unlike the stack of neglected books on my nightstand, Dr Emera’s book was so fascinating and eye-opening to me that I couldn’t put it down. The science is totally accessible to non-scientists, and Dr Emera’s passion and curiosity for evolutionary biology is especially inspiring. The book is carefully researched, clearly-explained, and explores topics that will interest and educate any reader (of any gender or sex). I don’t usually gift books, but I’ve already gifted this one to several mom friends and female relatives because they deserve to have a more complete understanding of how their bodies work.
12 people found this helpful
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Bronwyn Saglimbeni
5.0 out of 5 stars Must read for women of all ages.
Reviewed in the United States on August 18, 2023
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This book drops one mind blowing truth after another ... So little is understood about the way our bodies evolved, and this book is a MASSIVE step forward. It's written in an engaging, powerful way and is truly a pleasure to read. BRAVA.
7 people found this helpful
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MGO
4.0 out of 5 stars an up to date review of the female body
Reviewed in the United States on September 29, 2023
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Very descriptive and easy to read scientific update in what we humans know of the female body and all there is to learn.
I regret that the author did not even mentioned in the chapter of female orgasm the existence in some women of female ejaculation.
In a review of this nature is an important missing element in the understanding of female body.
7 people found this helpful
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SherM
5.0 out of 5 stars Best Science Book I Have Read in Years!
Reviewed in the United States on August 15, 2023
Verified Purchase
As a man, I was not expecting to find the evolutionary history of the female body so interesting. But the book was filled with fascinating evolutionary stories about topics ranging from menstruation to menopause to why orgasms exist. Dr. Emera manages to take a set of complex ideas, , and make them understandable and approachable.

All while tying them to her own family life as well as broader implications on health and wellbeing. It is a unique look at a topic I have not seen written about before. I highly recommend this book for both men and women who have an interest in science and evolution.
19 people found this helpful
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Kindle Customer
3.0 out of 5 stars Perhaps
Reviewed in the United States on November 1, 2023
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This book gives a very detailed look at different animals and at humans and tries to explain why we look like we do and act. It is a well put together book.
2 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

Nahla
5.0 out of 5 stars Scientifically integral and very enjoyable read
Reviewed in Canada on November 27, 2023
Verified Purchase
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. Emera was able to distill decades of complex research into a enjoyable read. I very much appreciated that open research questions and matters where scientists differ were portrayed as such (rather than with a bias towards the author's POV). The chapter on love was particularly interesting to me as I learned more about the intricacies of mate choice, a topic I had previously thought science had, for the most part, "nailed down".

Also, thought the light interweaving of personal and family anecdotes was a nice addition to the scientific material.
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Nat Zaj
5.0 out of 5 stars Every female should read this book!
Reviewed in Canada on October 6, 2023
Verified Purchase
If you're someone on a quest to gain deeper insights into yourself and the world around you, this book is an exceptional resource that offers unique perspectives not readily available elsewhere.
The book doesn't just stop at understanding our own species. It invites readers to develop a newfound appreciation for the diverse array of creatures that inhabit our planet, revealing the interconnectedness of life on Earth.
Dr. Emera's expertise and research in the field, particularly her in-depth analysis of menopause, stand out as particularly thought-provoking and enlightening. Her research is a beacon for anyone eager to expand their understanding of the female body. Every female should read this book.
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FP
5.0 out of 5 stars Super interesting read
Reviewed in Canada on November 12, 2023
Verified Purchase
Learned a lot from this book, even with a science degree. Great book for the arm chair intellectual looking for a fun read.
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