Description: Shells have captivated humans from the dawn of time: the earliest known artwork was made on a shell. As well as containers for food, shells have been used as tools, jewelry, decorations for dwellings, and to bring good luck or to ward off spirits. Many Indigenous peoples have used shells as currency, and in a few places, they still do. This beautifully illustrated book investigates the fascinating scientific and cultural history of shells.--
Brief description: Fabio Moretzsohn (1964-2020) was visiting assistant professor in the Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. He is coauthor of Encyclopedia of Texas Seashells and, with M. G. Harasewych, The Book of Shells.
Review Quotes: "Moretzsohn has crafted a laudable volume on shells and the animals that make them, the mollusks. There is a wealth of data on intriguing aspects of the biology and ecology of mollusks, and detailed yet little-known information on cultural practices involving shells. This book is a must-have in the library of any shell enthusiast!"--José H. Leal, PhD, science director and curator, Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum