delightful autobiography. They are accompanied by generous selections of responses from Darwin's nineteenth-century readers from across the world. More than anything, they give a keen sense of the controversial nature of Darwin's ideas, and his position within Victorian debates about man's place in nature.

The wide-ranging Introduction by James A. Secord, Director of the Darwin Correspondence Project, explores the global impact and origins of Darwin's work and the reasons for its unparalleled significance today. To increase its usefulness for readers coming to Darwin for the first time, the selection also includes a map of the Beagle voyage, a detailed chronology of Darwin's life, and a biographical appendix identifying every individual mentioned in the text. - ;This fantastic anthology paints an enthralling and complex portrait of Darwin's ideas and character. - Amanda Gefter, New Scientist;Thsi fantastic anthology paints an enthralling and complex portrait of Darwin's ideas and his character. - Amanda Gefter, New Scientist;It's a tight well laid-out introduction to Darwinism that will encourage you to go looking for more. - Paul O'Doherty, Irish Times  less