An Immense World
Ed Yong's "An Immense World" explores the astonishing sensory worlds of animals, revealing how creatures perceive reality in ways far beyond human comprehension. From the electric fields of platypuses to the echolocation of bats, Yong invites readers to imagine a universe filled with senses we can only dream of. This book is a journey into the hidden lives of the creatures around us, celebrating the diversity of perception on Earth.
This book distinguishes itself by focusing almost entirely on the concept of 'Umwelt' – the unique subjective world each animal perceives through its specific sensory capabilities. It delves deeply into how different species experience reality, rather than broadly surveying animal behavior or biology.
While it stands alone, 'An Immense World' continues Ed Yong's exploration of the microbial world and its impact on life, expanding his focus from the microscopic to the macroscopic sensory experiences of animals. It builds on his established interest in the hidden aspects of biology.
An Immense World was a finalist for the 2023 Pulitzer Prize in General Nonfiction. It also won the 2023 Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Nonfiction.