The Ultimate List of Best Books from the Last Decade

In Saga Volume 10, it's been three years since Marko passed away. Hazel just turned ten, and Alana is teaming up with a guy named Bombazine for some under-the-radar trading of baby formula. To lend a hand, Hazel is using her magical abilities to protect herself while pulling off thefts.

Love takes a sweet turn in this delightful YA graphic novel from WEBTOON, the top digital comic platform. Ray, a young seer dealing with her special abilities, finds her first taste of love and friendship in the magical bakery of her town.

In this unique town, there's an even more extraordinary bakery known for its special treats crafted to make dreams come true. For Ray, a quiet girl with powers of her own, her regular order is a hot tea with a side of romance.

Enter Laurie, a friendly barista with dreams of becoming a professional musician. Ray experiences real love for the first time, but even with a touch of magic, love is never straightforward. Both Ray and Laurie are chasing their dreams, and even though Ray can see the future, predicting her fate with Laurie proves to be a challenge.

Adapted from the beloved webcomic on WEBTOON, this heartwarming story of friendship and first love comes to life in graphic novel form with beautiful illustrations and exclusive content.

It's a story about two guys who meet, become friends, and fall in love. The bestselling LGBTQ+ graphic novel, Heartstopper, explores life, love, and everything in between. In this fourth volume, Charlie and Nick are officially a couple. Charlie is starting to feel ready to say "I love you", but Nick has a lot on his mind, including coming out to his dad and being concerned about Charlie's possible eating disorder.

As summer turns to autumn and a new school year begins, Charlie and Nick are in for some lessons about love. Heartstopper covers themes like love, friendship, loyalty, and mental health. It tells the small stories of Nick and Charlie's lives that, when combined, create something relatable for all of us.

Excitingly, Heartstopper has been picked up for television by See-Saw Films.

Discover the Boys' Love horror webtoon from Lezhin that took the world by storm! Now, it's available in a deluxe, full-color paperback in English for the first time.

The story revolves around Yoon Bum, a quiet guy with a crush on Sangwoo, one of the most popular guys in his college. As their paths cross during military training, Yoon Bum's feelings become an intense obsession. Things take a dark twist when he breaks into Sangwoo's home, only to find that the Sangwoo of his dreams is nothing like the nightmare he encounters.

This widely acclaimed BL horror webtoon won the grand prize at the 2nd Lezhin Comics World Comic Contest and has been published in multiple languages since its debut in 2016. Now, you can own the full-color deluxe paperback edition in English, complete with a special fold-out insert in each volume!

When Violet Sorrengail joined Basgiath War College, pretty much everyone thought she wouldn't last her first year, and she kinda thought the same. Threshing, their first crazy-hard test, was just to kick out those who weren't tough or lucky enough to stick around.

But that was just the start. Now Violet's facing training that's even more intense and mean, and it's pushing everyone to their limits. Plus, there's this new vice commandant guy who's really out to show Violet how weak she is, unless she turns her back on her boyfriend.

Sure, Violet might not be as physically strong as the others, but she's smart and super stubborn. Plus, she's learned one big thing: as dragon riders, they kind of make their own rules.

But just being tough and wanting to make it isn't going to cut it this year.

Violet's stumbled upon a huge, ancient secret at the college, and it's something so big that not even dragon fire might be able to handle it.

In this newest collection of Sarah's Scribbles comics, you'll explore the challenges of procrastination, the twists and turns of the creative process, the irresistible charm of kittens, and the freedom that comes with caring less about your appearance compared to your younger years. If you're into humorous illustrations that nail the awkward and funny aspects of millennial life, Sarah's Scribbles is unmatched.

Becoming Me: In the first section, Michelle Obama reflects on her childhood and early life growing up on the South Side of Chicago. She describes her family, her parents' values, and her experiences as a young girl with a strong sense of determination and ambition. Michelle shares her educational journey, from her elementary school years to her time at Princeton University and later at Harvard Law School. She also discusses the challenges and stereotypes she faced as a black woman pursuing higher education.

Becoming Us: In the second section, Michelle recounts her romantic relationship with Barack Obama, their marriage, and the early years of their life together. She provides insights into their shared values, aspirations, and the ways in which they complement each other. The section also delves into Barack's political career, from his early days as a community organizer in Chicago to his entry into Illinois state politics.

Becoming More: The final section of the book focuses on Michelle's experiences as the First Lady of the United States during Barack Obama's presidency. She shares her perspectives on the demands and challenges of the role, as well as her initiatives and advocacy work, including efforts to promote healthy eating and education. Michelle also reflects on the impact of her family's time in the White House on their lives and the nation as a whole.

Throughout "Becoming", Michelle Obama's narrative is characterized by her authenticity and her commitment to empowering others. She discusses the importance of embracing one's own identity, the significance of family and community, and the value of hard work and education. The memoir offers readers a glimpse into her personal journey, her role as a public figure, and her belief in the potential for positive change in society. It is a story of resilience, hope, and the power of one individual's voice to inspire and uplift others.

Before Kate Beaton became the New York Times bestselling cartoonist known for "Hark A Vagrant" there was Katie Beaton from Cape Breton, specifically Mabou, a close-knit seaside community rich in lobsters, beaches, and Gaelic folk songs. After college, Katie heads west to Alberta to join the oil rush, a common move for East Coasters seeking work elsewhere when opportunities are limited back home.

Her main goal is to pay off student loans, but the real cost of her journey turns out to be much more than expected. In Fort McMurray, she secures a job in the camps run by major oil companies, finding herself one of the very few women in a sea of men. The culture shock hits hard, especially when she moves to a basic, isolated worksite for better pay. Here, she faces the harsh realities of life in the oil sands, where everyday trauma is a silent companion, leaving wounds that may never heal.

Kate Beaton's exceptional cartooning skills vividly depict massive machinery and colossal vehicles against the stunning backdrop of Alberta's wildlife, Northern Lights, and Rocky Mountains. In her first full-length graphic narrative, "Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands", Beaton tells an untold story of Canada - a country proud of its egalitarian values and natural beauty while simultaneously exploiting both its land's riches and the humanity of its people.

Six powerful Goddesses are fed up with women not getting justice, so they decide to do something about it. They create the Amazons, badass warriors rocking unique armor and deadly weapons. These Amazons dive into the ancient world, saving enslaved women left and right. Along the way, they run into Hippolyta, just a midwife's assistant caught up in the action.

For centuries, the Cinder Spires have shielded humanity, soaring high above the perilous surface world. Within their grand halls, noble houses govern, crafting scientific wonders and constructing fleets of airships for both defense and commerce.

Now, on the verge of open conflict, the Spires teeter on the brink of war.

The impending clash is no secret. The formidable airship fleets, masters of the skies between the last bastions of humanity, are preparing for a confrontation. Spire Albion stands resolute, facing the overwhelming power of Spire Aurora's Armada and its formidable new weapon—capable of decimating entire Spires' populations.

A crucial trading summit at Spire Olympia becomes a pivotal moment for the Spirearch, Lord Albion, to secure alliances that will determine the course of the war. In pursuit of this goal, he dispatches the privateer Captain Francis Madison Grimm and the crew of the AMS Predator to support the Spirearch's diplomatic efforts.

Success will demand audacity, expertise, and a touch of theatrical flair to rally the world to stand beside Spire Albion, assuming it's not already too late.

Maggie Bird, a former spy seeking solace in the tranquil seaside village of Purity, Maine, aimed to leave the tumultuous past behind after a mission gone awry. Now, she spends her days on a chicken farm, keeping a low profile to avoid any repercussions from her early retirement.

However, tranquility shatters when a body appears in Maggie's driveway, a stark message from past adversaries who refuse to forget her. In her quest for truth and survival, Maggie turns to her local circle of friends, retired CIA operatives humorously known as the "Martini Club". Although officially retired, these former spies still possess skills that can be handy, eager to inject excitement into their relatively calm lives.

Adding complexity to the situation is Purity's acting police chief, Jo Thibodeau. More accustomed to dealing with tourists than solving homicides, Jo is perplexed by Maggie's reluctance to share information and her unconventional group of friends, always a step ahead.

As Jo's investigation intertwines with the Martini Club's maneuvers, Maggie's pursuit of answers forces her to revisit a clandestine career that spanned the globe. From Bangkok to Istanbul, London to Malta, the ghosts of her past resurface. With the support of her friends, and the somewhat unwilling Jo Thibodeau, Maggie endeavors to protect the life she has carefully built.

Childhood sweethearts Nicole and Tom were just an ordinary, loving couple, until a massive lottery win transformed their lives in an instant.

Suddenly, they find themselves residing in a custom-built, state-of-the-art Glass Barn on the picturesque grounds of Lancaut Manor in Gloucestershire. Their days are filled with luxury cars, extravagant hobbies, and a lifestyle beyond their wildest dreams.

However, this idyllic world takes a dark turn when Tom is discovered lifeless in the swimming pool.

Nicole is shattered. Tom was her anchor. The beautiful barn, with its supposedly smart features that never seem to cooperate, becomes a lonely place. Yet, she's not entirely alone in the countryside. There's a friendly young couple in the Manor, their middle-aged housekeeper in the Coach House, and an old school friend of Tom's who has arrived to offer support.

But substantial wealth can bring significant challenges and looming threats. Was Tom's demise a tragic accident, or is there something more sinister at play? Could Nicole's own life be in jeopardy?

Nicole can't shake the feeling that she's become a small fish in a vast glass fishbowl.

Mallory Greenleaf has left the world of chess behind. With her family shattered by the game's consequences, she's focused on her mom, sisters, and a job that barely keeps things afloat. However, she reluctantly agrees to play in a charity tournament and unexpectedly triumphs over the renowned "Kingkiller" Nolan Sawyer, the current chess world champion and notorious bad boy.

Nolan's unexpected defeat puzzles everyone, but what's even more surprising is his eagerness for a rematch. Mallory is torn; the logical move would be to walk away, to end the game. But her victory opens doors to much-needed cash prizes, and against her better judgment, she finds herself drawn to the mysterious strategist.

As Mallory climbs the chess ranks, she grapples with keeping her family insulated from the game that once tore them apart. As her love for the sport she wanted to hate resurfaces, Mallory discovers that the challenges extend beyond the chessboard. The spotlight is brighter than she expected, and the competition is more intense than ever.

The story revolves around Olive Smith and Adam Carlsen, the main characters. Olive is a dedicated and intelligent PhD student in neuroscience, and she's working on a theory about the science of falling in love. She's determined to prove her hypothesis. On the other hand, Adam is a good-looking professor who seems to embody everything that Olive's research contradicts.

As the story goes on, Olive and Adam find themselves in a fake dating situation. Olive hopes this will help her secure a research grant, while Adam has his own family reasons for going along with it. Through their journey, they discover that love doesn't always adhere to scientific principles, and that their own feelings can't be neatly explained by Olive's hypothesis.

"The Love Hypothesis" is loved for its clever humor, likable characters, and the delightful combination of science and romance. It's a tale about two people who end up in an unexpected situation and gradually learn that love can't always be predicted or understood purely through logic.

"Yours Truly" is like a happy episode from the TV show Grey's Anatomy. It's about Briana, a doctor who's been through a divorce, and Jacob, a doctor who deals with anxiety. At first, they don't get along, but their misunderstanding turns into a wonderful and heartwarming friendship, and eventually, they become more than just friends.

Is a grand story about love, faith, and medicine, set in Kerala, South India. It follows three generations of a family trying to uncover a mysterious secret. The tale spans from 1900 to 1977 and is located on the Malabar Coast, where water is abundant. This family is part of a Christian community with ancient roots, but their world is changing rapidly. Big Ammachi, the family matriarch, witnesses profound changes in her extraordinary life.

In this book, you'll find impressive depictions of medical advances, moments of humor, a touching story, and lifelike characters. It's a vivid portrayal of a bygone India and the passage of time, celebrating progress in medicine and human understanding. It also pays tribute to the hardships endured by past generations for the sake of those living today. "The Covenant of Water" is considered one of the most outstanding literary novels in recent years.

Back in 1929, there was a shocking tragedy in the Hope family. Seventeen-year-old Lenora was suspected of being involved, but the police couldn't prove it. She never talked about that night, and she hasn't left Hope's End, the mansion where it all happened.

Fast forward to 1983, and Kit McDeere, a home-health aide, comes to care for the now elderly and mute Lenora. Lenora communicates by typing on an old typewriter, and one night, she offers to share the whole story with Kit.

As Kit helps Lenora write about the events leading to the family tragedy, it becomes clear there's more to the story than people knew. But when Kit learns about why the previous nurse left, she starts to wonder if Lenora is hiding something and if the seemingly harmless woman might be more dangerous than she appears.

Hollis Shaw's life seems perfect on the surface. She has a popular food blog, "Hungry with Hollis" and is married to Matthew, a heart surgeon. But their heated argument one snowy morning leads to Matthew's tragic death in a car accident, revealing the cracks in her seemingly ideal life, including her strained marriage and complicated relationship with her daughter, Caroline.

In search of healing and connection, Hollis decides to host a "Five-Star Weekend" on Nantucket, inspired by an idea she heard about. The idea is to gather a best friend from each phase of her life: her teenage years, twenties, thirties, and midlife. However, this weekend doesn't unfold like a cheerful movie.

Tatum, Hollis's childhood friend, arranges for Hollis's first love, Jack Finigan, to join them, stirring up old emotions. Tatum also has to tolerate Dru-Ann, Hollis's college friend, who is dealing with a career crisis. Brooke, Hollis's friend from their thirties, learns her husband is involved with a co-worker again. And there's Gigi, a stranger who reached out to Hollis through her blog and has many secrets. Each of these women brings their own baggage to the weekend.

It's about a woman named Natalie Vos who's down on her luck after losing her job and her fiancé. She's returned home to heal, and now she needs her trust fund to start a new business. The catch is, she has to get married first. Natalie decides to propose to a man she can't stand, August Cates, who owns a vineyard. He's struggling to keep the business afloat. Despite their mutual dislike for each other, they agree to a fake marriage to solve their problems. They plan to live together for a few weeks and then part ways. However, what they didn't expect is the strong, undeniable attraction that keeps pulling them together. Their quickie marriage becomes much more complicated as their feelings intensify.

A journalist covering crime stumbles upon a burial site, but the old trees guarding their secrets won't easily reveal them. In this forested area, we encounter a painter in search of love, a trickster, a prowling panther, and someone driven by desire. As each of them grapples with the enigmas of the northern woods, they begin to understand that the wild, vibrant, and mysterious history of the place is still very much a part of the present.

It tells the story of Eden McCrorey, a high school student who experiences a traumatic event that profoundly impacts her life. The book follows Eden through her four years of high school, exploring the aftermath of the incident and how it shapes her relationships, self-perception, and overall journey.

The narrative delves into themes of trauma, healing, and the complex emotions that arise from such experiences. It provides a poignant portrayal of how trauma can affect a person's life and relationships over time.

Cath simply wants to spend time with her twin sister and indulge in writing fanfiction. However, since they started college, her sister has become too busy for her. Life keeps pushing Cath to step out of her comfort zone. Now, for the first time, she's building her own group of friends.

The story is about a young servant girl who escapes from a colonial settlement and ventures into the wilderness. She prefers to brave the dangers of the unknown, including wild animals and hardships, rather than confront the possibility of encountering men who may pose a threat of violence.

In January 1978, a serial killer was causing fear in the Pacific Northwest, but the young women in a top sorority at Florida State University in Tallahassee had other things on their minds. They were looking forward to a night full of promise, excitement, and desire. However, their sorority president, Pamela Schumacher, made a decision that would unknowingly save her life – she chose to stay home.

Around 3 a.m., Pamela was awakened by a strange noise, prompting her to investigate. What she discovered behind the door was a scene of unimaginable violence – two of her sorority sisters were dead, and two others were seriously injured. This marked the beginning of a horrifying mystery that drew inspiration from a crime that had captured public attention for over four decades.

On the other side of the country, Tina Cannon had found peace in Seattle after enduring years of hardship. Her life took an unexpected turn when she met Ruth Wachowsky, a 25-year-old woman with her own painful secrets. They formed an instant connection. However, tragedy struck when Ruth went missing from Lake Sammamish State Park in broad daylight, in the midst of a crowded beach. Tina was determined to find out what happened to her.

Upon learning about the Tallahassee tragedy, Tina realized that the culprit was the man known as the All-American Sex Killer. She was resolute in making him answer for what he had done to Ruth. So, she traveled to Florida, where her path would cross with Pamela's, leading to another impending tragedy.

She yearned for a fresh start in a tranquil small town, hoping to shield her little girl from the unsettling shadows of their past. What she never expected was Roan Hartley, a rugged and stern man who entered her life. Together, they rescued an injured deer during a fierce snowstorm. Roan's perpetual scowls and somber demeanor contrasted with his occasional smiles and the gentle way he interacted with her daughter. As the ghosts of her past resurfaced and posed a threat, Roan made it his mission to protect them, even if it meant sleeping on her aged couch every night. With each passing day, his touch chipped away at her emotional walls. However, an ominous presence loomed, determined to sabotage her happiness and perhaps even extinguish her life.

Parents should be aware that "Huda F Are You?" is a graphic novel by Huda Fahmy, recounting a fictionalized tale of her experiences growing up as an Egyptian American Muslim in Dearborn, Michigan. Huda is navigating the challenges of fitting in at school while also maintaining her own identity. Unfortunately, she faces bullying from both anti-Muslim classmates and teachers.

On her 45th birthday, Alix Summers, a popular podcaster, meets Josie Fair, another woman celebrating her 45th birthday at the local pub. They realize they share the same birthday and become friends.

A few days later, they run into each other again near Alix's children's school. Josie has been listening to Alix's podcasts and wants to feature her in her series. She hints at big changes in her life.

Josie's life seems complex and mysterious, making Alix uncomfortable, but she can't resist the idea of making a podcast about Josie. As they work together, Alix gradually uncovers dark secrets Josie has been hiding. Josie becomes a part of Alix's life and even moves into her home.

However, Josie suddenly disappears, leaving behind a chilling legacy that endangers Alix and her family. Alix realizes she has become the subject of her own true crime podcast, and her life is in grave danger.

The title of the book comes from a shared experience among Black women everywhere - the wash day ritual. It's that day when you set aside everything else to spend a whole day washing, conditioning, and nourishing your hair. Each short story uses these hair routines to give you a window into the everyday lives of these four characters and how they take care of each other.

Originally kickstarted by Jamila Rowser and Robyn Smith, the book includes a full-color version of their critically acclaimed, award-winning mini comic, Wash Day. It was inspired by Rowser's own wash day routine and their shared desire for more comics showcasing the daily experiences of young Black women. Now, Wash Day Diaries expands on Kim's story, a 26-year-old woman living in the Bronx, and introduces new characters in a graphic novel format.

As they dive into the lives of Kim and her friends, the authors celebrate Black sisterhood by capturing shared yet deeply personal experiences of Black hair care. Whether it's moments of self-care, chatting at a lengthy salon appointment, or healing family conflicts, the stories come to life with beautifully drawn characters and different color palettes reflecting the mood in each tale.

Sometimes touching, quiet, triumphant, and laugh-out-loud funny, the stories in Wash Day Diaries lovingly pay tribute to Black joy and the strength of Black women.

William Waters had a tough upbringing in a family marked by tragedy. His parents couldn't even look at him, let alone show love. Luckily, his talent in basketball gets him a college scholarship, a ticket away from his troubled past. In college, he meets Julia Padavano, a spirited and ambitious woman who appreciates his steady nature. Julia comes with her three younger sisters: Sylvie, the dreamer; Cecelia, the family's artist; and Emeline, the caregiver.

The Padavano family warmly welcomes William into their home. But William's dark past resurfaces, putting Julia's plans and the sisters' strong bond in jeopardy. This leads to a family crisis that will affect their lives for generations. Can their deep loyalty bring them back together when it matters most?

"Hello Beautiful" is a touching story about choosing to love someone not despite their flaws, but because of them. It's a beautiful portrait of what's possible when love is unconditional.

Samin, who's a chef and a food writer, breaks down cooking into four essential things: salt, fat, acid, and heat. It's like the magic formula for making your food taste awesome. She explains it all in a really cool and easy way, helping you get those flavors just right in your dishes. People love it because it's not just about recipes; it's like having a friendly chef friend giving you the inside scoop on how to make your food taste amazing.

Prepare for the winter season with a compilation of 50 captivating stories from various corners of the world.

Settle down by the warmth of the fire and embark on a journey through a diverse collection of wintertime folk tales, myths, and legends. This treasury features a wide array of stories, including those about Norse gods, hibernating bears, festive Christmas feasts, and mischievous witches, making it an inclusive assortment of winter-inspired tales suitable for everyone.

This anthology is the perfect choice for the holiday season, as well as for any occasion when you're eager to explore chilling stories from both nearby and faraway lands.

Award-winning author Angela McAllister has skillfully collected and retold these stories, while Olga Baumert's enchanting illustrations add an extra layer of magic to this book. It's a collection meant to be enjoyed as the weather gets colder and the nights grow longer, making it an ideal companion for wintertime reading.

Some of the captivating stories you'll discover in this treasury include "The Spider and the Christmas Tree" from Ukraine, "Mother Holle" from Germany, "Shingebiss" from Ojibwe in North America, and many more. The "World Full of…" series offers beautifully bound hardback story treasuries, making it an excellent addition to any child's bookshelf.

Age Range: 5-8

"The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street" is a book for kids. It's about a family who lives in a big house in New York City. They have a problem because the person who owns the house wants them to leave before Christmas. The family has five kids, and they decide to do things to make the person change their mind and let them stay. They get help from their friends and people who live nearby. It's a nice story about family, friends, and the good things that happen during the holidays. A lot of kids like this book.

Age range: 7-10 years

Molly Gray is truly one of a kind. Known for her exceptional cleaning skills and impeccable manners, she has climbed the ranks at the prestigious Regency Grand Hotel to become the esteemed Head Maid. Just when her life seems to have reached the peak of perfection, everything takes a dramatic turn. J.D. Grimthorpe, the world-renowned mystery author, unexpectedly drops dead, right on the hotel's tea room floor.

Detective Stark, a familiar adversary of Molly's, takes charge of the investigation into the author's suspicious demise. It's clear that this wasn't a natural death, and the question on everyone's mind is: who killed J.D. Grimthorpe? The list of suspects is long, ranging from Lily, the new Maid-in-Training, to Serena, the author's secretary. Even Mr. Preston, the beloved doorman, is not beyond suspicion. And what about Molly herself? Is she truly as innocent as she appears?

With the hotel's pristine reputation on the line, Molly realizes that she holds the key to uncovering the killer's identity. However, this key is buried deep in her past, connected to the time when she knew J.D. Grimthorpe. Molly delves into her memories, revisiting her childhood and the mysterious Grimthorpe mansion where she and her late Gran once worked side by side. With the entire hotel under scrutiny, Molly must unravel the mystery quickly. One thing she's certain of, dirty secrets have a way of resurfacing sooner or later.

The book suggests smart strategies to be more efficient, make better decisions, and ultimately, achieve greater profits while working less. It's a guide for those who want to prioritize both success and a fulfilling life.

"Marketing Made Simple" is a user-friendly guide that takes the complexity out of marketing for any business. The authors, known for their StoryBrand framework, provide a step-by-step approach to help businesses effectively communicate their message and connect with customers. The book outlines practical strategies for creating clear and compelling marketing messages, making it easier for businesses to engage their audience and drive results. Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just starting out, this book offers actionable insights and a straightforward roadmap to simplify the marketing process and achieve success for any business.

"This is Marketing: You Can't Be Seen Until You Learn To See" is a compelling guide that challenges traditional notions of marketing. Godin emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding the needs of your audience. The book explores the idea that effective marketing is not about selling to everyone but connecting with the right people. With practical advice and real-world examples, Godin encourages readers to adopt a mindset that prioritizes building relationships and creating value. Whether you're a business owner or a marketer, this book provides a fresh perspective on how to approach marketing in a way that is meaningful, authentic, and focused on making a positive impact.

The book emphasizes the importance of honesty and openness in content marketing, encouraging businesses to provide valuable information that builds trust and credibility. Through real-world examples and practical strategies, Sheridan demonstrates how answering customer questions openly can lead to increased trust, better customer relationships, and business success. Whether you're a marketer, business owner, or content creator, this book offers actionable insights on how to align your content with customer needs and foster a culture of transparency in your marketing efforts.

The book provides actionable steps to create a compelling and clear narrative that resonates with your audience. Through real-world examples and practical exercises, Miller shows how to craft a story that engages customers and drives results. Whether you're a small business owner or a marketer, this book offers valuable insights on simplifying your message and making it more impactful in the marketplace.

Richard Dawkins’ first work has thrilled fans and frustrated critics for five decades. The science has moved on, but any writer looking to supplant its place must learn its lessons Richard Dawkins’ The Selfish Gene was not predicted to be a success. Its initial print run, published this week in 1976, was just 5,000. It went on to sell millions, and is perhaps the most influential work of pop-science ever. For 50 years, it has been the go-to resource for the layperson seeking to understand evolution. What accounts for its enduring power? Prof Dawkins’ central claim, that “we are survival machines – robot vehicles blindly programmed to preserve the selfish molecules known as genes” was provocative, stripping the messy stuff of human and other life down to a simple law. And yet the book is primarily concerned with proving that complex, selfless behaviour such as altruism in animals can emerge from these basic “selfish” drives, satisfyingly resolving an apparent paradox. Prof Dawkins – a zoologist by training – also succeeded in conjuring entertaining, vividly drawn vignettes of the lives of animals, from lions and ants to hawks and honeybees, to make his points. Do you have an opinion on the issues raised in this article? If you would like to submit a response of up to 300 words by email to be considered for publication in our letters section, please click here. Continue reading...