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Bite: An Incisive History of Teeth, from Hagfish to Humans
From three-inch fang blennies to thirty-foot prehistoric crocodiles, from gaboon vipers to Neanderthals, Bite is a fascinating journey through the natural, scientific, and cultural history of something right in front of—or in—our faces: teeth.
In Bite, zoologist Bill Schutt makes a surprising case: Teeth are responsible for the long-term success of vertebrates. The appearance of teeth, roughly half a billion years ago, was an adaptation that allowed animals with backbones, such as fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, dinosaurs, and mammals to chow down in pretty much every conceivable environment.
But teeth are not just for food. Tusks and fangs have played crucial roles as defensive weapons—glimpsing the upper canines of snarling dogs is all it takes to know that teeth are an efficient means of aggression. Vampire bats use their razor-sharp teeth to obtain a widespread but generally untappable resource: blood. Early humans employed their teeth as tools to soften tough fibers and animal hides. Our teeth project information and social status—the ancient Etruscans were the first to wear tooth bling, and it’s doubtful that George Washington would have been elected president without the false teeth he wore.
So much of what we know about life on this planet has come from the study of fossilized teeth, which have provided information not only about evolution but also about famine, war, and disease. In his signature witty style, Schutt shows us how our continued understanding of teeth may help us humans through current and future crises, from Alzheimer’s disease to mental health issues.
In Bite, zoologist Bill Schutt makes a surprising case: Teeth are responsible for the long-term success of vertebrates. The appearance of teeth, roughly half a billion years ago, was an adaptation that allowed animals with backbones, such as fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, dinosaurs, and mammals to chow down in pretty much every conceivable environment.
But teeth are not just for food. Tusks and fangs have played crucial roles as defensive weapons—glimpsing the upper canines of snarling dogs is all it takes to know that teeth are an efficient means of aggression. Vampire bats use their razor-sharp teeth to obtain a widespread but generally untappable resource: blood. Early humans employed their teeth as tools to soften tough fibers and animal hides. Our teeth project information and social status—the ancient Etruscans were the first to wear tooth bling, and it’s doubtful that George Washington would have been elected president without the false teeth he wore.
So much of what we know about life on this planet has come from the study of fossilized teeth, which have provided information not only about evolution but also about famine, war, and disease. In his signature witty style, Schutt shows us how our continued understanding of teeth may help us humans through current and future crises, from Alzheimer’s disease to mental health issues.
308 pages, Hardcover
Published August 13, 2024
81 people are currently reading
5,317 people want to read
About the author
Bill Schutt
7books308followersBill Schutt's latest nonfiction book "Bite: An Incisive History of Teeth, from Hagfish to Humans" received a rave review in The New York Times Books , a starred review in Kirkus Reviews and raves from Publisher's Weekly () and elsewhere. "Bite"will be published on August 13, 2024 and can be preordered anywhere books are sold.
Bill Schutt is a long-time research associate at the American Museum of Natural History and Emeritus Professor of Biology at LIU-Post. Born in New York City and raised on Long Island, he received his B.A. in Biology at C.W. Post, his MA at SUNY Geneseo, and a Ph.D. in Zoology from Cornell University. He has published over two dozen peer-reviewed articles on topics ranging from terrestrial locomotion in vampire bats to the precarious, arboreal copulatory behavior of a marsupial mouse. Schutt has written for the New York Times and Natural History magazine and his research has also been featured in those publications, Newsday, the Economist, Discover, and others. He is an active member of the North American Society for Bat Research.
"Pump: A Natural History of the Heart", published in 2021 was a critical success, with great reviews from Publisher's Weekly, The Wall Street Journal, Library Journal, Booklist, Kirk's Reviews and more.
Published in 2017, Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History garnered rave reviews from The New York Times, Boston Globe, Publishers Weekly (Starred Review), The New Yorker, Scientific American and many more. Cannibalism was also a 2017 ŷ Choice Award Finalist (Science and Technology) and a Chicago Public Library "Best of the Best books of 2017".
Bill Schutt's first book, Dark Banquet: Blood and the Curious Lives of Blood-Feeding Creatures, was selected as a Best Book of 2008 by Library Journal and Amazon, and was chosen for the Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers program.
Schutt's co-authored WWII thriller Hell's Gate (R.J. MacCready novel #1) was published to widespread critical acclaim in 2016 (with starred reviews in Publishers Weekly and Library Journal), as was The Himalayan Codex, a year later. The Darwin Strain, the final book in the R.J. MacCready trilogy debuted in Aug. 2019.
Schutt’s TED-Ed video "Cannibalism in the Animal Kingdom" came as the 9th most viewed TED-Ed video of 2018 (and currently has over 3.3 million views). His followup, "A Brief History of Cannibalism", had 1.2 million views in the first two months and came in as the 5th most viewed TED-Ed video of 2019. Schutt's 3rd TED-Ed video, on blood transfusions, had a quarter million views in the first 10 days.
Schutt lives in New York with his wife.
For Interviews & Media, contact Katrina Tiktinsky - Publicity Assistant, Hachette Book Group,[email protected]
For Speaking Engagements, contact Ashley Himes at Hachette Speakers Bureau, [email protected]
Agent for nonfiction:Gillian MacKenzie- Gillian MacKenzie Agency - [email protected]
Agent for Fiction and Young Readers:ElizabethRudnick - Gillian MacKenzie Agency -[email protected]
Bill Schutt is a long-time research associate at the American Museum of Natural History and Emeritus Professor of Biology at LIU-Post. Born in New York City and raised on Long Island, he received his B.A. in Biology at C.W. Post, his MA at SUNY Geneseo, and a Ph.D. in Zoology from Cornell University. He has published over two dozen peer-reviewed articles on topics ranging from terrestrial locomotion in vampire bats to the precarious, arboreal copulatory behavior of a marsupial mouse. Schutt has written for the New York Times and Natural History magazine and his research has also been featured in those publications, Newsday, the Economist, Discover, and others. He is an active member of the North American Society for Bat Research.
"Pump: A Natural History of the Heart", published in 2021 was a critical success, with great reviews from Publisher's Weekly, The Wall Street Journal, Library Journal, Booklist, Kirk's Reviews and more.
Published in 2017, Cannibalism: A Perfectly Natural History garnered rave reviews from The New York Times, Boston Globe, Publishers Weekly (Starred Review), The New Yorker, Scientific American and many more. Cannibalism was also a 2017 ŷ Choice Award Finalist (Science and Technology) and a Chicago Public Library "Best of the Best books of 2017".
Bill Schutt's first book, Dark Banquet: Blood and the Curious Lives of Blood-Feeding Creatures, was selected as a Best Book of 2008 by Library Journal and Amazon, and was chosen for the Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers program.
Schutt's co-authored WWII thriller Hell's Gate (R.J. MacCready novel #1) was published to widespread critical acclaim in 2016 (with starred reviews in Publishers Weekly and Library Journal), as was The Himalayan Codex, a year later. The Darwin Strain, the final book in the R.J. MacCready trilogy debuted in Aug. 2019.
Schutt’s TED-Ed video "Cannibalism in the Animal Kingdom" came as the 9th most viewed TED-Ed video of 2018 (and currently has over 3.3 million views). His followup, "A Brief History of Cannibalism", had 1.2 million views in the first two months and came in as the 5th most viewed TED-Ed video of 2019. Schutt's 3rd TED-Ed video, on blood transfusions, had a quarter million views in the first 10 days.
Schutt lives in New York with his wife.
For Interviews & Media, contact Katrina Tiktinsky - Publicity Assistant, Hachette Book Group,[email protected]
For Speaking Engagements, contact Ashley Himes at Hachette Speakers Bureau, [email protected]
Agent for nonfiction:Gillian MacKenzie- Gillian MacKenzie Agency - [email protected]
Agent for Fiction and Young Readers:ElizabethRudnick - Gillian MacKenzie Agency -[email protected]
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
October 12, 2024
Entertaining as always! I'm a little confused by the decision to save a discussion about the evolution of teeth until halfway through the book, though.
August 22, 2024
I think “Bite� is the best book I’ve ever written. More importantly, so does Kirkus Reviews and The New York Times.
December 10, 2024
Teeth are, while visible, kinda gross. And apparently super weird.
I learned about dentures and the development of dentistry, tooth shapes and the ways in which they destroy or latch onto flesh, vestigial teeth and baby teeth, and those fish that swim up your urethra.
Recommended if the above, set against a backdrop of chuckle inducing jokes, sounds like a fun time. 3.75 stars
I learned about dentures and the development of dentistry, tooth shapes and the ways in which they destroy or latch onto flesh, vestigial teeth and baby teeth, and those fish that swim up your urethra.
Recommended if the above, set against a backdrop of chuckle inducing jokes, sounds like a fun time. 3.75 stars
October 13, 2024
In Bite, zoologist Bill Schutt writes extensively about teeth across vertebrates -- starting with extended stories about vampire bats (the organism he studied most closely), then various other animals, and then finally, around halfway through the book, moving to humans. This book is densely-written, jam-packed with factoids, and many attempts at humor. It wasn't to my personal taste -- I prefer centered deep-dives rather than broad, tangential surveys with as much information crammed in as possible -- but I think this book would hit the sweet spot (pun intended) for the right audience.
My statistics:
Book 240 for 2024
Book 1843 cumulatively
My statistics:
Book 240 for 2024
Book 1843 cumulatively
November 20, 2024
I LOVED this. something about an obscure non fiction gets me. I thought it was well written, I listened to the audiobook which was suuuper well done, and I learned a lot of weird little facts. what more do you need
August 15, 2024
Feed Your Information Appetite With Bite!
This was a fun book.
I found it really interesting and well written.
The writing, by Schutt, reminded me in a way of the writing of , especially how the book itself is very similarly-titled and geared towards a similar audience of or .
Not 100% as hilarious as Roach's writing, but still a fun and interesting scientific read.
If this book sounds interesting to you! Give it a bite!
Check it out.
I liked it!
3.9/5
This was a fun book.
I found it really interesting and well written.
The writing, by Schutt, reminded me in a way of the writing of , especially how the book itself is very similarly-titled and geared towards a similar audience of or .
Not 100% as hilarious as Roach's writing, but still a fun and interesting scientific read.
If this book sounds interesting to you! Give it a bite!
Check it out.
I liked it!
3.9/5
July 31, 2024
This book about teeth will put a smile on your face! If all science professors peppered their lectures and reading with such humor, there would be a lot more scientists in the world. In Bite we take a trip back in time, learn about dental forensics, how baby bats' teeth are used more like hands to grasp onto a parent before they can fly on their own, and many other fascinating and often humorous scientific tidbits related to teeth - in bats, fish, birds, and mammals. And why it's critical to visit the dentist regularly.
Bite is as fascinating as Salt or Cod, both by the excellent Mark Kurlansky, with more dad jokes. Seriously, a lot of puns, jokes, and humorous asides liven up the material and make it quite an enjoyable and interesting non-fiction book.
My thanks to the author, publisher, audiobook producer, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook in exchange for a review. Bite will be published on August 13, 2024.
Bite is as fascinating as Salt or Cod, both by the excellent Mark Kurlansky, with more dad jokes. Seriously, a lot of puns, jokes, and humorous asides liven up the material and make it quite an enjoyable and interesting non-fiction book.
My thanks to the author, publisher, audiobook producer, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook in exchange for a review. Bite will be published on August 13, 2024.
August 18, 2024
Schutt's writing strikes once again the perfect balance between entertaining and informative. A delightful book by a delightful man.
August 7, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Algonquin Books for the ARC.
Not only did I learn about teeth, but I also learned about the specifics of evolutionary biology by way of a specific feature of vertebrates. Bill Schutt covered all his bases, from the beginning of life to present-day animals, the variations of teeth and how they got them, and what that means for us. Personally, I feel like we shouldn't have to find a use for this information in order to appreciate it; nature doesn't exist solely for us to use it to our advantage, it just exists as it is. But Schutt says it a few times in the book: the people with the money to fund their research want a use for it. There are a few points where he and his fellow scientists lament this fact, and I kinda wish we got some information as to what we, as readers interested in this stuff, can do to help? Or is getting into science education and sharing this knowledge enough?
Not only did I learn about teeth, but I also learned about the specifics of evolutionary biology by way of a specific feature of vertebrates. Bill Schutt covered all his bases, from the beginning of life to present-day animals, the variations of teeth and how they got them, and what that means for us. Personally, I feel like we shouldn't have to find a use for this information in order to appreciate it; nature doesn't exist solely for us to use it to our advantage, it just exists as it is. But Schutt says it a few times in the book: the people with the money to fund their research want a use for it. There are a few points where he and his fellow scientists lament this fact, and I kinda wish we got some information as to what we, as readers interested in this stuff, can do to help? Or is getting into science education and sharing this knowledge enough?
March 27, 2025
As delightful as a book about teeth and bites and mouths can be! Reading this is like having a really excellent biology teacher, maybe not something that will bring you to tears (of sadness or joy) but will make you think and sometimes laugh and always learn. An excellent example of how great science can be.
August 23, 2024
Disclaimer: Please note that I received and Audio ARC from NetGalley and Hachette Audio in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
⭐⭐⭐⭐�
“Bite� is a fascinating exploration of the evolutionary significance of teeth, making a compelling case for their crucial role in the survival and success of vertebrates. The book is well-written and engaging, blending scientific insight with Schutt’s signature wit, making it an unexpectedly captivating read. Schutt delves into the diverse functions of teeth beyond just eating, covering their roles in defense, aggression, and even social status, all while weaving in intriguing historical and cultural anecdotes. Schutt’s thorough exploration of evolutionary biology made this an enlightening and enjoyable read. This book is a must for anyone interested in natural history, though some sections might feel a bit dense for casual readers, which is why it’s a solid four-star read.
Get it at�
📗 - Hard Copy -📗
Your Local Canadian Book Seller
Indigo
Amazon Canada
📱 - Digital - 📱
Kobo
Kindle
🎧 - Audio - 🎧
Audible
Libro.FM
⭐⭐⭐⭐�
“Bite� is a fascinating exploration of the evolutionary significance of teeth, making a compelling case for their crucial role in the survival and success of vertebrates. The book is well-written and engaging, blending scientific insight with Schutt’s signature wit, making it an unexpectedly captivating read. Schutt delves into the diverse functions of teeth beyond just eating, covering their roles in defense, aggression, and even social status, all while weaving in intriguing historical and cultural anecdotes. Schutt’s thorough exploration of evolutionary biology made this an enlightening and enjoyable read. This book is a must for anyone interested in natural history, though some sections might feel a bit dense for casual readers, which is why it’s a solid four-star read.
Get it at�
📗 - Hard Copy -📗
Your Local Canadian Book Seller
Indigo
Amazon Canada
📱 - Digital - 📱
Kobo
Kindle
🎧 - Audio - 🎧
Audible
Libro.FM
August 7, 2024
4.25 - An incredibly interesting look into the history of one of evolution's biggest wins - teeth. There's still a lot we don't know about teeth, but what we do know makes for quite a compelling read. From their initial appearance hundred of millions of years ago, all the way through to today, teeth have, and continue to, play a huge role in the success of vertebrates. Whether discussing dinosaurs or fish, bats or humans, teeth, as both weapons and tools, are critical when it comes to survival, and their fossilized remains have helped us learn so much about the inhabitants of the world we live in. Well written and wonderfully read, this book is humorous, educational, and thoroughly enjoyable!
Thank you to Hachette Audio, Algonquin Books, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Thank you to Hachette Audio, Algonquin Books, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 26, 2024
Thank you, NetGalley for an advanced ALC of this book as an audiobook from Publisher @HachetteAudio
I do love Non-Fiction books where I can learn & this fascinated me to learn about animals and the importance of Teeth... I learnt about animals that I didn't even know had teeth etc. Each chapter concentrated on certain creatures.
The narration of this book was very well done with a Voice that was pleasant to listen to, making each moment go by fast and be very engaging
I do love Non-Fiction books where I can learn & this fascinated me to learn about animals and the importance of Teeth... I learnt about animals that I didn't even know had teeth etc. Each chapter concentrated on certain creatures.
The narration of this book was very well done with a Voice that was pleasant to listen to, making each moment go by fast and be very engaging
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2024
A pretty thorough, although dry and dull at times, book about teeth.
November 7, 2024
inch resting
April 9, 2025
loved 2/3 of this - the chapter on george w. was too long IMHO i got lost in the sauce
March 3, 2025
“Bite� is one of the most enjoyable books i’ve ever encountered. It’s witty and informative, and explains specifics and jargon to the reader in a way that doesn’t feel like the subject matter is being overly dumbed-down. Charles Constant was a perfect narrator for the audiobook and captured the humor and love for life and all things living that was made so evident in this book. I’m looking forward to reading a few other works by this author.
July 10, 2024
� Synopsis
In "Bite," zoologist Bill Schutt argues that teeth are crucial to the long-term success of vertebrates. Since their appearance roughly half a billion years ago, teeth have enabled animals with backbones to thrive in diverse environments, serving not only for eating but also as weapons for defense and aggression. Teeth have been tools for early humans, symbols of social status, and vital in the study of evolution, famine, war, and disease through fossilized remains. Schutt's witty narrative explores how understanding teeth can help address modern crises, including Alzheimer's and mental health issues.
� Thoughts
I hadn't realized teeth could be such an interesting topic, but the author presents it engagingly. Schutt examines the evolutionary origins, types, and anatomy of teeth, highlighting their roles in food processing, defense, and mating. He studies various creatures, from sharks and vampire bats to humans and elephants, noting the wide range of tooth numbers and the existence of toothless animals. Schutt also covers venomous bites, historical dentistry, and the fascinating role of teeth in various aspects of life.
In "Bite," zoologist Bill Schutt argues that teeth are crucial to the long-term success of vertebrates. Since their appearance roughly half a billion years ago, teeth have enabled animals with backbones to thrive in diverse environments, serving not only for eating but also as weapons for defense and aggression. Teeth have been tools for early humans, symbols of social status, and vital in the study of evolution, famine, war, and disease through fossilized remains. Schutt's witty narrative explores how understanding teeth can help address modern crises, including Alzheimer's and mental health issues.
� Thoughts
I hadn't realized teeth could be such an interesting topic, but the author presents it engagingly. Schutt examines the evolutionary origins, types, and anatomy of teeth, highlighting their roles in food processing, defense, and mating. He studies various creatures, from sharks and vampire bats to humans and elephants, noting the wide range of tooth numbers and the existence of toothless animals. Schutt also covers venomous bites, historical dentistry, and the fascinating role of teeth in various aspects of life.
August 13, 2024
Very entertaining and informative! Who knew there could be so much to say about teeth? Schutt tells us about the function of different types of teeth (tusks, fangs) and about how different animals use their teeth. He also talks about human teeth - including what little critters cause decay, pain, and infection (believe it or not - it isn't "tooth worms" as ancient societies all over the world used to think!). The book was humorous and very educational and I thouroughly enjoyed it. I have read Schutt's earlier book "Canabalism" and look forward to reading his book on the heart, "Pump."
I listened to this as an audiobook and I, like many of you, I assume, listen at 1.5 speed. The narrator, Charles Constant, was great and was very easy to understand, even at this speed.
I listened to this as an audiobook and I, like many of you, I assume, listen at 1.5 speed. The narrator, Charles Constant, was great and was very easy to understand, even at this speed.
June 11, 2024
Bones that stick out of the head? If you have not pondered the fascinating phenomena of teeth yet, now is the time.
As someone who has had to undergo a myriad of dental procedures, I have spent my fair share of time considering teeth: generally and mine personally. There is no better fuel for contemplating the evolution and existence of teeth than lying in the dentists chair waiting for a root canal. Bill Schutt’s Bite presented the perfect opportunity for me to finally learn more. (Thanks to Bill Schutt and Algonquin for the ARC!)
Whether you are interested in fauna, evolution, anatomy, George Washington’s dentures, the future of dentistry or just learning something new “Bite� has something for you. This book goes beyond simply being about teeth and further into what teeth can tell us about our world.
As a Floridian, I especially enjoyed learning about how important and unique parrotfish are in the context of our marine ecosystem. Full of information from every corner of our world, Bite leads to a new appreciation for the evolutions that led to the incidence of teeth and the mechanisms of evolution itself.
Oh, “the tales told by teeth�!
As someone who has had to undergo a myriad of dental procedures, I have spent my fair share of time considering teeth: generally and mine personally. There is no better fuel for contemplating the evolution and existence of teeth than lying in the dentists chair waiting for a root canal. Bill Schutt’s Bite presented the perfect opportunity for me to finally learn more. (Thanks to Bill Schutt and Algonquin for the ARC!)
Whether you are interested in fauna, evolution, anatomy, George Washington’s dentures, the future of dentistry or just learning something new “Bite� has something for you. This book goes beyond simply being about teeth and further into what teeth can tell us about our world.
As a Floridian, I especially enjoyed learning about how important and unique parrotfish are in the context of our marine ecosystem. Full of information from every corner of our world, Bite leads to a new appreciation for the evolutions that led to the incidence of teeth and the mechanisms of evolution itself.
Oh, “the tales told by teeth�!
June 20, 2024
Loved it❣️Very interesting❣️
August 26, 2024
[4.5 stars rounded up]
Such a fun and enjoyable read! This is the first of Schutt’s books that I have read and others of his will certainly be on my radar for the near future. This book, structured with each individual chapter being focused on one specific aspect surrounding teeth (whether a single animal/group of animals or something that teeth impact in humans), is a very easy read without ever feeling juvenile. It remains funny throughout without sacrificing any of the information that it gets across.
Bill Schutt is an excellent teacher. He is able to take complex things (such as theories or biological processes) and explain them in such a digestible way. I have taken multiple college-level biology courses, so much of the broader information was rehashing to me, but I could appreciate the knowledge that he has and the skill that is required to take these topics into more easily understood forms without losing any of the complexity. For instance, when describing the sensors that a research team used to measure the bite force of crocodilians, Schutt begins by explaining in depth the sensors used (what they are called, how they work, etc.) and how they convert the bite force data into information. He then likens it to how a bathroom scale converts the force of you standing on it to a digitized form of weight. This is just one example that stuck out to me, but there are many more throughout the book the continue to showcase his skill in teaching and getting information across to a casual audience.
The structure threw me off at first. I went into this expecting a chronological rundown on the development of teeth from the first invertebrates to develop them until modern humans. However, the book immediately, after an introduction, focuses on a few different examples of specialized teeth. This includes vampire bats and horses. I understand the choice though to lure in the reader with several fun chapters describing these weird and fascinating aspects of these animals that are oftentimes overlooked before beginning discussion on the currently accepted theories on how teeth and jaws developed in vertebrates. Though I think I, personally, would have better enjoyed a book structured more chronologically, I understand the choice made and think it helps the book avoid a textbook feel right off the back (not that the more science/theory heavy chapters were bad at all; they were written very clearly).
My main complaint about the book is that it was too short (not to sound cliché). The first around 60% of the book is about various species/families of animals and their teeth. The final 40% is about humans, both ancient and modern, and how teeth have played a role in our lives and society (I especially enjoyed the chapter on fluoride!). Both sections of this book are very well-done, but I found myself wanting more of both aspects. I was hoping to, for instance, read about beaver’s teeth or perhaps the teeth of many species of ground sharks, such as the Port Jackson shark, whose teeth developed to crush and grind up shellfish and have a very distinct appearance. I did really enjoy the human section of the book though, and found the information very interesting and presented well (though I will always hope for more about ancient hominins, whether or not completely applicable to this particular book haha). This book itself does not feel unfinished without these examples (or anything else that the author could have added) but rather the book was such a fun read that it left me longing for more.
Genuinely, this was such a good read that immediately left me wondering how Schutt’s previous books have been off my radar. This is one of those books that anyone with a love or curiosity for animals and the world around us will greatly enjoy.
Such a fun and enjoyable read! This is the first of Schutt’s books that I have read and others of his will certainly be on my radar for the near future. This book, structured with each individual chapter being focused on one specific aspect surrounding teeth (whether a single animal/group of animals or something that teeth impact in humans), is a very easy read without ever feeling juvenile. It remains funny throughout without sacrificing any of the information that it gets across.
Bill Schutt is an excellent teacher. He is able to take complex things (such as theories or biological processes) and explain them in such a digestible way. I have taken multiple college-level biology courses, so much of the broader information was rehashing to me, but I could appreciate the knowledge that he has and the skill that is required to take these topics into more easily understood forms without losing any of the complexity. For instance, when describing the sensors that a research team used to measure the bite force of crocodilians, Schutt begins by explaining in depth the sensors used (what they are called, how they work, etc.) and how they convert the bite force data into information. He then likens it to how a bathroom scale converts the force of you standing on it to a digitized form of weight. This is just one example that stuck out to me, but there are many more throughout the book the continue to showcase his skill in teaching and getting information across to a casual audience.
The structure threw me off at first. I went into this expecting a chronological rundown on the development of teeth from the first invertebrates to develop them until modern humans. However, the book immediately, after an introduction, focuses on a few different examples of specialized teeth. This includes vampire bats and horses. I understand the choice though to lure in the reader with several fun chapters describing these weird and fascinating aspects of these animals that are oftentimes overlooked before beginning discussion on the currently accepted theories on how teeth and jaws developed in vertebrates. Though I think I, personally, would have better enjoyed a book structured more chronologically, I understand the choice made and think it helps the book avoid a textbook feel right off the back (not that the more science/theory heavy chapters were bad at all; they were written very clearly).
My main complaint about the book is that it was too short (not to sound cliché). The first around 60% of the book is about various species/families of animals and their teeth. The final 40% is about humans, both ancient and modern, and how teeth have played a role in our lives and society (I especially enjoyed the chapter on fluoride!). Both sections of this book are very well-done, but I found myself wanting more of both aspects. I was hoping to, for instance, read about beaver’s teeth or perhaps the teeth of many species of ground sharks, such as the Port Jackson shark, whose teeth developed to crush and grind up shellfish and have a very distinct appearance. I did really enjoy the human section of the book though, and found the information very interesting and presented well (though I will always hope for more about ancient hominins, whether or not completely applicable to this particular book haha). This book itself does not feel unfinished without these examples (or anything else that the author could have added) but rather the book was such a fun read that it left me longing for more.
Genuinely, this was such a good read that immediately left me wondering how Schutt’s previous books have been off my radar. This is one of those books that anyone with a love or curiosity for animals and the world around us will greatly enjoy.
October 8, 2024
This is a fun and informative book that focuses on teeth in the animal world.
How teeth work, what they are made of, why some animals have the types of teeth they do, the current up to date theories on tooth evolution in some animals etc etc. It's all here.
It's delivered in a smooth somewhat informal cadence that comes equipped with jokes and side notes. That keep it from ever feeling too dry or clinical. Gives you that vibe that you are following along with a professor who likes to keep things fun.
but...
The author meanders. He is a bat expert so he starts on bats. Comes back to bats later. Doesn't really stay focused on teeth. Taking the time to discuss the tenants of evolutionary mechanisms. The colors of butterflies and more oddities. Parables about horses...
It never quite feels all inclusive. There isn't much discussion of insect chewing mechanisms, but a lengthy bit about animals that don't have teeth.
A whole chapter on frogs who lose their teeth.
A chapter about George Washington and his dentures.
It's fun. Just kinda feels like the author gets off track a bit and tells you what he is excited to share, rather than taking the time to compose a structured approach to delivering the material.
How teeth work, what they are made of, why some animals have the types of teeth they do, the current up to date theories on tooth evolution in some animals etc etc. It's all here.
It's delivered in a smooth somewhat informal cadence that comes equipped with jokes and side notes. That keep it from ever feeling too dry or clinical. Gives you that vibe that you are following along with a professor who likes to keep things fun.
but...
The author meanders. He is a bat expert so he starts on bats. Comes back to bats later. Doesn't really stay focused on teeth. Taking the time to discuss the tenants of evolutionary mechanisms. The colors of butterflies and more oddities. Parables about horses...
It never quite feels all inclusive. There isn't much discussion of insect chewing mechanisms, but a lengthy bit about animals that don't have teeth.
A whole chapter on frogs who lose their teeth.
A chapter about George Washington and his dentures.
It's fun. Just kinda feels like the author gets off track a bit and tells you what he is excited to share, rather than taking the time to compose a structured approach to delivering the material.
January 29, 2025
Birds are in many ways physiologically superior to mammals. They have more efficient lungs, more efficient kidneys, amazing juvenile growth rates, and potentially comparable levels of intelligence and parental care in at least some lineages. Why then do we live in the age of mammals? I have a theory that the answer is teeth. Bird lines that survived the Cretaceous lacked teeth which precluded them from being large generalist herbivores and largely restricted their predation to talon-based strategies which require flight which limits size.
Thus, I was looking forward to a book about how the development of teeth drove evolutionary trends and opened or partitioned niches over time. Instead, I got partly an anthology of case studies of quirky animal teeth (e.g. crocodile bite strength and snake venom delivery), partly some information about tooth physiology (e.g. enamel, dentin, pulp, etc), and partly a social history of teeth in human culture (e.g. dental practices through time and myth busting about Washington's dentures). That was all mildly interesting, but it wasn't fascinating. It was too disjointed and the topics too narrow to be really engaging. I'm not sorry I read it, but it disappointed my high expectations.
Thus, I was looking forward to a book about how the development of teeth drove evolutionary trends and opened or partitioned niches over time. Instead, I got partly an anthology of case studies of quirky animal teeth (e.g. crocodile bite strength and snake venom delivery), partly some information about tooth physiology (e.g. enamel, dentin, pulp, etc), and partly a social history of teeth in human culture (e.g. dental practices through time and myth busting about Washington's dentures). That was all mildly interesting, but it wasn't fascinating. It was too disjointed and the topics too narrow to be really engaging. I'm not sorry I read it, but it disappointed my high expectations.
September 4, 2024
This is the second book that I’ve read by author Bill Schutt, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first book I read, Pump: A Natural History of the Heart. As I had mentioned in my review of Pump, I wish I had had Dr Schutt as a professor when I was studying for my Biology/Human Anatomy and Physiology degree because he would have made what could have been a dull and complex subject mind-blowing fun.
This time, Dr. Schutt looks at teeth and how the addition of teeth (or some other kind of mechanism to grind or tear apart food) afforded vertebrates the ability to be able to exploit the food in their environment. Teeth can also be used as defensive weapons. As a new cat mom to several kittens, I can personally attest to the fact that itty bitty kitten teeth are lethal.
Of course, I was most interested in the evolution of human teeth and how, over the many millennia, human jaws have gotten smaller, leaving little room for the third set of molars, the wisdom teeth. I didn’t have my wisdom teeth removed until I was in my fifties and sixties and that was probably a mistake because removing the bottom wisdom teeth left me in agony for weeks. Fair warning: get your wisdom teeth removed while young and before they’ve had a chance to entrench themselves in your jaw.
I really enjoyed reading Bite: An Incisive History of Teeth, from Hagfish to Humans though I found the book’s beginning chapters on vampire bats to be a bit long and slow to read. Once I got past that part of the book, it picked up and I really enjoyed reading all about teeth, especially the early attempts of false teeth (contrary to popular belief, George Washington did not have wooden teeth). If you find the section about false teeth to be of interest, do check out Paul Craddock’s book Spare Parts: The Story of Medicine Through the History of Transplant Surgery, which I reviewed and also enjoyed.
I would recommend Bite: An Incisive History of Teeth, from Hagfish to Humans to anyone who has an interest in science or a casual interest in developmental biology. Dr. Schutt has made the subject very accessible and fun to read.
4/5 stars
[Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the advanced ebook copy in exchange for my honest and objective opinion, which I have given here.]
This time, Dr. Schutt looks at teeth and how the addition of teeth (or some other kind of mechanism to grind or tear apart food) afforded vertebrates the ability to be able to exploit the food in their environment. Teeth can also be used as defensive weapons. As a new cat mom to several kittens, I can personally attest to the fact that itty bitty kitten teeth are lethal.
Of course, I was most interested in the evolution of human teeth and how, over the many millennia, human jaws have gotten smaller, leaving little room for the third set of molars, the wisdom teeth. I didn’t have my wisdom teeth removed until I was in my fifties and sixties and that was probably a mistake because removing the bottom wisdom teeth left me in agony for weeks. Fair warning: get your wisdom teeth removed while young and before they’ve had a chance to entrench themselves in your jaw.
I really enjoyed reading Bite: An Incisive History of Teeth, from Hagfish to Humans though I found the book’s beginning chapters on vampire bats to be a bit long and slow to read. Once I got past that part of the book, it picked up and I really enjoyed reading all about teeth, especially the early attempts of false teeth (contrary to popular belief, George Washington did not have wooden teeth). If you find the section about false teeth to be of interest, do check out Paul Craddock’s book Spare Parts: The Story of Medicine Through the History of Transplant Surgery, which I reviewed and also enjoyed.
I would recommend Bite: An Incisive History of Teeth, from Hagfish to Humans to anyone who has an interest in science or a casual interest in developmental biology. Dr. Schutt has made the subject very accessible and fun to read.
4/5 stars
[Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the advanced ebook copy in exchange for my honest and objective opinion, which I have given here.]
October 19, 2024
It's a history of teeth, biting and oral venoms told in the style of Stephen J. Gould's popular evolution books, so if you like Gould's books of essays on evolution, you will like this one too. As in many good evolution books there are some surprising stories. To us, it seems natural that we should have teeth. How else would we prepare the food that we eat for digestion? Surely humans could not have succeeded in evolutionary competition if we could only eat mush or tiny creatures that we could swallow whole! But many other creatures have found successful toothless niches. Bills, beaks and long tongues can be more efficient ways to shovel nourishment into the digestive system for some types of diets. There is even evidence of ancestors with teeth among some toothless creatures for whom teeth turned out to be an evolutionary burden and were lost over time. My favorite new fact comes at the end of the book - the theory that humans may have a latent third set of tooth buds in our jaws that we may be able to induce to sprout and replace broken and decaying teeth as we age. Forget the implants and dentures, I want a brand new set of natural old guy teeth!
July 31, 2024
Genetics and evolution are hard subjects for me. I wasn’t sure that I would be able to grasp the very specialized content of this volume and I’m impressed at how the author makes the information appealing and approachable. What do we know about teeth? Turns out that not as much as we’d think. Schutt explores these features in animals, extant and extinct, as well as how they got that way. From elephants, hippos, vampire bats and humans, amongst many others. The audiobook narration by Charles Constant does great justice to the author’s sense of humor. He nails the middle ground between your favorite professor and a knowledgeable friend. The content goes from the perfect fodder for Trivial Pursuit to a more in-depth analysis of the composition and evolution of teeth and how they have influenced our lives and those of our fellow animals. Fascinating, entertaining and easy to understand.
I chose to listen to this audiobook and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, NetGalley/Hachette Audio | Algonquin Books.
I chose to listen to this audiobook and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased. Thank you, NetGalley/Hachette Audio | Algonquin Books.
August 15, 2024
Bite by Bill Schutt, In The book Dr. William A Schutt Who has previously brought such great books as Eat Me, Cannibal and a couple of other greats now brings Bite i’m in the book we learn everything about the mouths of not only animals the humans as well from using it as a weapon to giving our body fuel to the history of modern dentistry and so much more. I love books by this zoologist because he tends to cover every bass from the high rate of Victorian era deaths due to tooth infection and other maladies to those cause by the bite’s of animals and sea predators to the evolution of teeth and birds he even dispels a myth that has plagued an area in South America about a tiny little catfish that would bourogh into the urinary tract of those brave enough to go into the areas waters. Despite his specialty being a vampire bats he doesn’t skimp on any other subject he takes time and he is a great author and always offers a five star read and is definitely in the top three of my favorite non-fiction writers.#NetGalley, #AlgonquinBooks, #BillSchutt, #Bite,
March 18, 2025
If you find history, science, and the natural world to be interesting topics� and enjoy learning� I think you’ll enjoy this book! I would classify Bite as conversationally educational� you’ll definitely learn something, and while it will reference studies, the book itself definitely isn’t a research paper. Some chapters are more dense than others, but overall I found this to be an easy and interesting read.
I appreciate that the author collaborated with several experts and then showcased their knowledge and hypotheses in their respective fields within the book; I think this approach is what made Bite informative but not overwhelming. If you’ve read and liked “Salt: A World History,� you’ll probably enjoy this much shorter and conversational history of teeth.
While I don’t think many things I learned from this book will be featured in your everyday trivia night, I will definitely be referencing some snippets in my everyday conversations!
I appreciate that the author collaborated with several experts and then showcased their knowledge and hypotheses in their respective fields within the book; I think this approach is what made Bite informative but not overwhelming. If you’ve read and liked “Salt: A World History,� you’ll probably enjoy this much shorter and conversational history of teeth.
While I don’t think many things I learned from this book will be featured in your everyday trivia night, I will definitely be referencing some snippets in my everyday conversations!
August 8, 2024
Bite: An Incisive History of Teeth, from Hagfish to Humans might have a daunting title, but Bill Schutt has managed to make the topic interesting as well as digestible. Teeth have served vertebrates as weapons as well as tools to consume food. Teeth (the fossilized sort) have served anthropologists and other scientists as tools for understanding evolution, famine, war, and even social status.
Schutt presents to readers a smart, highly technical book that thoroughly explores his title subject in an approachable way. He assumes his readers are intelligent, and he adds a bit of humor to break up the technical detail.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at
www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
#Bite #BillSchutt #NetGalley
Schutt presents to readers a smart, highly technical book that thoroughly explores his title subject in an approachable way. He assumes his readers are intelligent, and he adds a bit of humor to break up the technical detail.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at
www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
#Bite #BillSchutt #NetGalley
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