{"title":"Maggie Ryan Sandford","description":"\u003cp\u003eMaggie Ryan Sandford is a captivating author and science communicator, well-known for her engaging and insightful exploration of the natural world. With a delightful blend of wit and intelligence, she brings the wonders of science and nature to a broad audience, making complex topics accessible and enjoyable for readers of all backgrounds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne of her standout works, \u003cem\u003eConsider the Platypus\u003c\/em\u003e, invites readers on a fascinating journey through the animal kingdom, unraveling intriguing facts and evolutionary wonders. Maggie's writing style is both informative and conversational, ensuring that readers not only learn but also relish every page.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you're keen on exploring the mysteries of biology and the quirks of evolution, Maggie Ryan Sandford's collection offers an enlightening and entertaining perspective. Dive into her books to discover the marvels that nature holds, all presented with a touch of humour and a clear passion for the subject matter.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"consider-the-platypus-by-maggie-ryan-sandford-9780316418393","title":"Consider the Platypus","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eConsider the Platypus\u003c\/em\u003e explores the history and features of more than 50 animals to provide insight into our current understanding of evolution. Using Darwin's theory as a springboard, Maggie Ryan Sandford details scientists' initial understanding of the development of creatures and how that has expanded with the advent of genetic sequencing, including the:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePeppered Moth, which changed colour based on the amount of soot in the London air;\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCalifornia Two-Spotted Octopus, which has the amazing ability to alter its DNA\/RNA not over generations but during its lifetime;\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMinuscule tardigrade, which is so hardy it can withstand radiation, lack of water and oxygen, and temperatures as low as -328°F and as high as 304°F;\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAnd, of course, the platypus, which has so many disparate features— from a duck's bill to a venomous spur to mammary patches—that scientists originally thought it was a hoax.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSurprising, witty, and impeccably researched, Sandford describes each animal’s significant features and how these have adapted to its environment, such as the zebra finch's beak shape, observed by Charles Darwin, which is a cornerstone of his Theory of Evolution. With scientifically accurate but charming art by Rodica Prato, \u003cem\u003eConsider the Platypus\u003c\/em\u003e showcases species as diverse as the sloth, honey bee, cow, brown kiwi, and lungfish, to name a few, to tackle intimidating concepts in an accessible way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Hachette Aotearoa New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46854299549932,"sku":"9780316418393","price":44.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/17666933482300.jpg?v=1759240073"}],"url":"https:\/\/bookhero.co.nz\/collections\/maggie-ryan-sandford.oembed","provider":"Book Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}