This is a function of Pattison’s uncanny ability to write evocatively about science. Despite ample opportunity, Fossil Men never devolves into gonzo journalism. The story lines border on the insane: There are civil wars, gunfights, at least one grenade rolling around the feet of the scientists as they drive into the desert and, sadly, a violent death. In places, Fossil Men seems more reality television show than a work of popular science, as we follow an outrageous cast of White’s supporting characters. Often vulgar, but charming and funny, he commands an army of loyal friends against tides of intellectual enemies. Obsessed with the tiniest bumps on ancient bones, and peeved at anyone who interprets those bumps differently, he’s ruthless in his quest to find new fossils, no matter what war zone or swarm of poisonous pests might be in the way. He’s portrayed as a brilliant antihero, Indiana Jones meets Tony Soprano.
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