Avi Sirlin: Writer

Author of the historical novel The Evolutionist
The Evolutionist tells the story of one of Britain’s most controversial and misunderstood Victorians, a man Sir David Attenborough called "the most admirable character in the history of science" --  Alfred Russel Wallace. In 1858, Wallace earned equal credit with Charles Darwin for the discovery of our modern theory of evolution. But in an era that pitted science against faith, Wallace boldly declared his belief in both -- thus clashing headlong with London's scientific elite, including Darwin. More than 150 years later, Wallace has become the forgotten father of evolution.

Praise for The Evolutionist:
"A strongly impressionistic portrait of an undeservedly little-known scientist, The Evolutionist is a raptly compelling read."
-- Susan Bethany, Midwest Book Review

"Sirlin weaves fact and fiction into an enthralling account .. "
-- Natalie Heng, The Star Online (Malaysia)

"...If you've ever heard the theory of natural selection explained and thought, "Why didn't I think of that?" then read this book and find out why. It took far more than just thinking about it; it took a lifetime of hardship and adventure." 
-- David Jones, author North American Wildlife

"Brimful of factual details ... This novel will appeal to any reader interested in ... the lives of the intrepid Victorian specimen hunters."
-- Historical Novel Society

"A wide audience beyond the scientifically curious will find this an easy read and come away with a richer understanding of the rigours of early scientific research - both in the field and in the halls of established theory." 
-- Professor Gene J. Parola, author The Devil to Pay

"The Evolutionist is a triumph of biographical fiction, an utterly convincing character study of one of the most poignant figures in the history of science."
-- Nowick Gray, author of Hunter's Daughter

"An exciting adventure story well told."
-- Peter Hobson, Shiny New Books

Listen to a short (10 minute) interview with Avi on CBC Radio: https://soundcloud.com/cbcvictoria/writer-avi-sirlin-on-the-evolutionist-the-strange-tale-of-alfred-russel-wallace

Here is another short radio interview with Avi on ABC (Australia): http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/booksplus/avi-sirlin's-novel-the-evolutionist/7405086



   



          

Photo by Alan Sirulnikoff