Charles Darwin and the Theory of Natural Selection

by Alan J. Hesse

In 1859, Charles Darwin unveiled to the world a theory so controversial that it shook the very foundations of science and theology.
This historically and scientifically accurate comic explains Darwin's theory in clear language, and provides thoroughly researched insight into Darwin's thought process and the pressures he had to deal with. As an educational graphic novel, the book provides an entertaining learning experience for curious kids, and is perfect for science teachers who want to teach evolution in their classrooms. It is also great for any adult interested in natural history, Darwin and his theory, and Victorian scientific exploration in general. 

Charles Darwin: the comic  
What you will discover   How the field observations made by Darwin and his crew while visiting the legendary Galápagos islands eventually led to the Theory of Natural Selection  How Darwin tapped into the scientific minds of his time and related with his peers Darwin's inner struggle while developing his work, including the dilemma he faced as a God-fearing Christian The little-known truth behind how the Theory of Natural Selection was actually stumbled upon How the Theory actually works, explained in simple language and with cartoon illustrations Extend your knowledge and that of your kids in finally understanding the only scientific explanation for Life on Earth by traveling back in time to enter the mind of Charles Darwin!

24 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 11, 2014

About the author

Alan J. Hesse is an award-winning author-illustrator who merges professional expertise in nature conservation with storytelling and artistic skills. Alan’s 30-year career in conservation gives him a unique edge as an author of children's books with an environmental focus that are both engaging and educational.
He is the author of ten children's books, most of them graphic novels and comics that have been compared to the legendary Tintin collection. These include the growing and highly acclaimed Adventures of Captain Polo series about climate change. The Captain Polo character is the inspiration behind the Captain Polo Academy as a global brand promoting environmental and climate literacy.

Reviews

[Manybooks · Rating 2 out of 5]

Although Alan J. Hesse's Charles Darwin and the Theory of Natural Selection does indeed present a decent and informative enough introduction to Darwin's journeys, his discoveries and how he came to consider that life on earth is millions upon millions of years old and slowly changed over time through evolution and natural selection, I cannot say that I in any way really enjoyed this book or even learned anything new for that matter. And in my opinion, the graphic novel format used by the author is actually and sadly pretty pedestrian and standard, and considering that the font sizes of the printed words are so small as to often require a magnifying glass, trying to even adequately peruse Charles Darwin and the Theory of Natural Selection has been more of a frustrating reading chore than in any manner a pleasure, with the result for me personally that Alan J. Hesse's presented text would have had to have been outstanding and glowingly spectacular for me to have actually enjoyed or been enchanted and enlightened by Charles Darwin and the Theory of Natural Selection. And this has most certainly not been the case here by any stretch of my imagination, as the narrative, while I guess adequate for a basic introduction on Charles Darwin also does not ever really shine, and the few lame attempts at humour, such as when for example, a returned to England Charles Darwin is studying an Orang-Utan at the London Zoo and musing over her perhaps being related to humans, it is Jenny the ape who is described by author Alan J. Hesse as thinking and believing that humans and apes are related (but that humans are to her not as evolved as apes), and while perhaps mildly amusing, this does not really belong in a non fiction biographical and scientific sketch on Darwin and the theory of evolution (at least in my humble opinion).

Combined with the fact that I really did not and still do not aesthetically enjoy the accompanying illustrations all that much either (very cartoon like, with many of the human characters and figures looking like cardboard caricatures that at times actually remind me of some of the not so acceptable renditions of people in some of the Tintin comic books) and even though I do well realise that Charles Darwin and the Theory of Natural Selection is indeed a graphic novel in format, personally I really cannot grant more than two stars at best, as aside from my criticisms of the at times lacking and frustrating text (and how small it is, how hard on my eyes it has proven to be) and the (to and for me) aesthetically rather majorly displeasing illustrations, there is also (and sadly, frustratingly) no bibliographies, no suggestions for further reading and study included, which not only should be part and parcel to ANY non fiction book on Charles Darwin but also and obviously seriously limits the teaching, learning and research value of Charles Darwin and the Theory of Natural Selection (and certainly would not really make this book all that successful for potential classroom or homeschooling use).

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alan J. Hesse's Charles Darwin and the Theory of Natural Selection is a brilliantly crafted educational book that introduces children to the fascinating world of historical science in an accessible and enjoyable manner. The book immerses readers into the life and times of Charles Darwin, alongside other pivotal figures, through concise and informative biographies. It then embarks on an exploratory journey across the Galapagos Islands, presented through an engaging comic format that vividly brings to life Darwin's meticulous study of flora, fauna, and geological formations, with a particular focus on birds and tortoises.

The narrative is enriched by delightful illustrations that infuse humor into scientific exploration, captivating the imagination of young readers. Darwin is portrayed not merely as an observer but as an inquisitive and experimental mind, constantly questioning and analyzing his surroundings to forge groundbreaking conclusions. This depiction serves as an inspiring example of creativity and scientific inquiry in action.

Hesse's storytelling prowess is evident as he weaves a clear and coherent narrative that not only fosters a love for nature but also introduces a diverse array of settings and characters. He skillfully balances the practical explorations on the Galapagos Islands with Darwin's theoretical developments, which were revolutionary at the time. Hesse enhances the learning experience by thoughtfully accompanying challenging geography and biology terms with clear visuals, making the content both accessible and enriching for young readers. Darwin's monumental contributions to our understanding of the natural world are presented in a manner that is likely to spark a curiosity for science, biology, and ecology in children.

Charles Darwin and the Theory of Natural Selection stands out as a comprehensive and engaging work that will not only appeal to its intended young audience but also to adults. It is a testament to Hesse's ability to present complex scientific concepts in a way that is both informative and thoroughly enjoyable.

[Shawn Oueinsteen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. It presents Darwin in a way that's fun, interesting, and informative. It's a wonderful book for kids interested in biology and natural selection. I'm an adult. I have a degree in the biological sciences. I'm a writer. And there was a lot I learned from Alan Hesse's Charles Darwin book. I recommend it to everyone. Parents especially and elementary school teachers definitely should buy it.