Chapter 1 Finding Your Inner Fish

Before starting this book, I wondered how the human structure could possibly resemble the parts of a fish. I expected the book to be boring and full of facts and information. As I started reading, however, I realized that this book actually had many interesting and valid points. I never really believed in the theory of evolution and didn't have much thoughts on it either, but this book made me wonder whether we really did originate from fish. From this first chapter, I was able to get a glimpse of Shubin and the challenges that he faces during this journey that he takes. He has to know exactly where to look so that he doesn't waste time in a useless place, and he also needs great patience and endurance for the times when he isn't successful with his excavation. This helped me understand the dedication, determination, and hardwork that is necessary in order to reach a breakthrough. Also, I liked that the book was written in a way that made it easy for people unfamiliar to paleontology and anatomy to understand and keep up with. The diagrams and general categories that Shubin discusses guided me and helped me follow along. I feel that this chapter was an effective way of introducing Shubin's journey, and I am looking forward to joining him on this adventure.