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The Story of Shit

3.45 goodreads logo

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( 196 ratings, 53 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Story of Shit by Midas Dekkers explores the fascinating and often overlooked topic of excretion, delving into its biological, cultural, and historical aspects. With wit and scientific insight, Dekkers examines how societies have dealt with waste through the ages, highlighting its essential role in nature and human life. The book is a humorous yet enlightening journey, reshaping our understanding of something fundamental yet frequently ignored.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$3500
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you appreciate an insightful and humorous exploration of a subject often considered taboo. Midas Dekkers delves into the science and nature of a vital yet overlooked aspect of biology with wit and curiosity, making it a compelling read for those interested in unconventional topics.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

A wonderfully wry, erudite and altogether charming investigation into the most rarely discussed of bodily functions: defecation!

A wonderfully wry, erudite and altogether charming investigation into the most rarely discussed of bodily functions- defecation.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

We are very discreet. We disappear into a small room, perform the task, flush, wash and reappear as if nothing happened. Of course, hygiene is necessary—some faecal bacteria, if re-ingested, can cause very serious problems—and unpleasant aromas are best kept at bay.

But in all this hygienic discretion, have we lost touch with an integral part of ourselves—something as much a part of living as breathing, eating and sleeping? Something enriching, creative and even enjoyable.

In The Story of Shit, Dutch biologist Midas Dekkers presents a personal, cultural, scientific, historical and environmental account of shit, from the digestive process and the fascinating workings of the gut, to the act of defecation and toilet etiquette. With irreverent humour and a compelling narrative style, Dekkers brings a refreshing, entertaining and illuminating perspective to a once-taboo subject.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Story of Shit by Midas Dekkers receives praise for blending humour with insightful scientific exploration, making a taboo subject both fascinating and engaging. Critics appreciate Dekkers's unique writing style and his ability to present complex ideas in an entertaining manner. The book is described as a captivating mix of social history, biology, and cultural analysis, with a witty approach that appeals to a broad audience.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781925355178

Publisher: Text Publishing

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 29 January 2018

Country: Australia

Imprint: The Text Publishing Company

Contributors:

  • Translated by Nancy Forest-Flier

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 153.0mm

Height: 234.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 400

About the Author

Midas Dekkers is a bestselling Dutch writer and biologist. His books include Physical ExerciseThe Way of All Flesh, Dearest Pet and The Larva.

Nancy Forest-Flier is a Dutch-to-English translator. She was educated in the USA and now lives in the Netherlands.

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