A Short History of the World According to Sheep

Discover the enthralling story of one of mankind's most overlooked but impactful creatures in A Short History of the World According to Sheep by Sally Coulthard. Spanning millennia and continents, this remarkable book delves into how sheep have shaped human history, transforming societies, economies, and cultures from the dawn of civilisation to the modern era.

From the fertile crescent of ancient Mesopotamia, where early shepherds initiated the domestication of sheep around 11,000 years ago, to the sprawling sheep farms of present-day Australia, Coulthard expertly traces the journey of these extraordinary animals. Throughout, she paints a vibrant and engaging portrait of sheep as indispensable contributors to our diet, clothing, language, and even territorial conquests. As the reader is guided through centuries of sheep’s influence, the narrative reveals surprising and delightful anecdotes that celebrate their central role in human evolution and development.

With a tapestry of historical insights and compelling ovine facts, Coulthard eloquently highlights how sheep have not merely been passive bystanders in our story but active participants in shaping our world. She examines their critical role in economies, their symbolic presence in art and mythology, and their profound impact on our everyday lives, offering a fresh perspective on these humble yet remarkable creatures.

This title was published also in the United States under the title Follow the Flock.

'A snappy, stimulating book, and certainly not just for shepherds.' Mail on Sunday

'Full of fascinating social history.' Independent

'You won't look at a sheep in the same way again.' Country Living

Just as enlightening and captivating as Harari's Sapiens, A Short History of the World According to Sheep will undoubtedly find a cherished place on your bookshelf, offering knowledge, amusement, and a newfound appreciation for one of our most enduring and beneficial animal companions.