Title: Why Fish Don’t Exist: A Story of Loss, Love, and the Hidden Order of Life
Author: Lulu Miller
First published April 14, 2020
225 pages, Hardcover
Rating: 4.19
Overview
In her captivating debut, Lulu Miller delivers an enthralling story of scientific obsession, heartbreak, and the quest for order in a world of chaos. Why Fish Don’t Exist chronicles the life of David Starr Jordan, a taxonomist whose work in discovering new fish species was destroyed not once, but thrice.
Yet, despite countless setbacks and tragedies, Jordan remained steadfast in his pursuit of knowledge. Miller draws upon Jordan’s life story to explore complex themes of resilience, hope, and the human desire for order in a universe that seems to resist it at every turn.
This part-biography, part-memoir, and part-scientific adventure is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and insight into the hidden workings of the natural world.
About the Author
Meet Louisa Elizabeth Miller, or as she’s better known, Lulu Miller. She’s a talented writer, artist, and science reporter who’s currently lending her skills to National Public Radio.
Lulu got her start in radio as a producer for the popular WNYC program Radiolab. Today, she’s co-hosting the fascinating NPR show Invisibilia alongside Alix Spiegel.
Editoral Review
Lulu Miller’s debut book, “Why Fish Don’t Exist: A Story of Loss, Love, and the Hidden Order of Life,” is a remarkable exploration of identity, hope, and the human desire for understanding in the face of chaos. Miller, a journalist and former producer of the popular radio show Radiolab, expertly weaves together memoir, science, and history into a poignant narrative that is both deeply personal and universal in its themes.
At its core, the book is the story of Miller’s journey to understand the life and work of David Starr Jordan, a taxonomist who devoted his life to naming and categorizing the world’s fish species. But as she delves deeper into his story, she discovers a man who was also deeply flawed and morally suspect, leading her to question not only his legacy but also her own beliefs about order and meaning in the world.
Miller’s writing is precise, lyrical, and deeply affecting, drawing the reader into her own experiences of loss and grief while illuminating the complex relationships between humans and the natural world. She expertly blends scientific concepts with literary metaphors, creating a narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its nuanced exploration of the relationship between science and morality. Miller asks difficult questions about the role of scientists in creating and perpetuating oppressive systems of power and the necessity of acknowledging the ethical implications of scientific research.
At the same time, she underscores the importance of scientific inquiry as a means of understanding the world and giving meaning to our experiences. While the book is not without its flaws – at times, Miller’s use of metaphor can feel forced or overwrought – these are minor quibbles in the face of such a powerful and moving work.
“Why Fish Don’t Exist” is a testament to the complexity and beauty of the natural world and the human capacity for wonder, curiosity, and compassion. Readers who enjoy works of creative nonfiction, memoirs, and science writing will find much to admire in this book, as will those who are drawn to stories of personal growth and transformation.
Highly recommended.
Rating: 4.5 / 5 stars.
