Richard Owen

[Richard Owen] was a scientific colossus . . . Readers may not leave with feelings of admiration for the man himself, but they will surely come to appreciate his central role in the vibrant enterprise of natural history in the 1800s. * Natural History *
Do read Armstrong’s book. It is an excellent introduction to a complex man who engaged in a complex, intriguing but eternal science. * Evolution Journal *
The author expertly analyzes the British social structure during Owen's day, which of course shaped some of his behavior. Owen resented Charles Darwin's work, his success, and his station in society. Armstrong also examines Owen's relationship with his wife, whom Owen apparently loved, although she did not accompany him on many of his travels. Finally, Armstrong reveals some of the background of London's large buildings, including Kew Gardens and the Crystal Palace. Even today Owen's influence on the structure of the British Museum can be seen in London's skyline. * Choice *
Armstrong’s biography accomplishes its admirable purpose – describing in considerable detail Owen’s many accomplishments and contrasting them with his disagreeable nature. * Geoffrey Martin, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Geography, Southern Connecticut State University *
This book is a fascinating account of the life of Sir Richard Owen. Patrick Armstrong’sbalanced commentary of an intelligent but controversial individual makes for compulsive reading. * Vivian Louis Forbes, Adjunct Associate Professor of Geography, The University of Western Australia *
In this lively and sure-footed biography, distinguished historian of science Patrick Armstrong brilliantly brings a lifetime of scholarship to the task of explicating why Victorian-era palaeontologist and Charles Darwin collaborator and detractor Richard Owen remains worthy of our attention. A fascinating study! * Tom Chaffin, author of Odyssey: Charles Darwin, the Beagle, and the Voyage that Changed the World. *