Vital Circuits

Most of us think about our circulatory system only when something goes wrong, but the amazing story of how it goes right -- "magnificently right," as author Steven Vogel puts it -- is equally worthy of our attention.

In Vital Circuits, Steven Vogel gives us a fascinating, often witty, and highly original guide to the heart, vessels, and blood. He takes us through the realm of biology and into the neighbouring fields of physics, fluid mechanics, and chemistry. We relive the discoveries of such scientists as William Harvey and Otto Loewi, and we consider the circulatory systems of such fellow earth-dwellers as octopuses, hummingbirds, sea gulls, alligators, snails, snakes, and giraffes. Vogel is a master at using everyday points of reference to illustrate potentially daunting concepts. And we learn not only such practical information as why you might want to wear support hose on a long aeroplane flight, but also the answers to such seemingly unrelated issues as why duck breasts (but not chicken breasts) have dark meat, and why dust accumulates on the blades of a fan.

The author reveals himself to be an eloquent advocate for the cause of science as the most interesting of the humanities, Vogel's story will appeal to everyone who has ever wondered what "120 over 80" means, who exercises regularly for cardiovascular fitness, or who has an interest in how the heart works.