Emma Darwin: A Victorian Life

Drawing on the letters and diaries of Emma Wedgewood Darwin (1808-1896), J. D. Loy (emeritus, anthropology, U. of Rhode Island) and freelance writer K. M. Loy offer insights into the character of the woman who became Charles Darwin's wife and assisted him in preparing his publications despite religious qualms about his ideas on natural selection. The book also serves as a parallel biography that sheds light on the evolution of Charles' thought since his Beagle voyage. As the authors forewarn, the genealogies of these first cousins require readers' forbearance. Detailed background on the milieu of the times, family trees, and photographs are included. Annotation 穢2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)