Moths, Myths, and Mosquitoes
The Eccentric Life of Harrison G. Dyar, Jr.
Marc Epstein
Reviews and Awards
"Historians of science - especially those interested in the development of natural history, systematics, and museums - and anyone drawn to scientific biography will find much that is appealing in this accessible and engaging volume." -- Mark V. Barrow, Jr., Isis Journal
"To write Moths, Myths, and Mosquitoes, Epstein dug deep into the Smithsonian's holdings of publications, correspondence, diaries, unpublished short stories and novellas, newspaper articles and marriage certificates, providing rich context for Dyar's intellectual and scientific milieu. Epstein's descriptions of Dyar's collecting trips and battles with colleagues are particularly evocative." --Nature
"[A] fascinating biography and valuable scientific account of entomologist Harrison Dyar Jr. ... This entertaining, well-researched volume includes numerous photos (some previously unpublished). Recommended." --CHOICE
"H. G. Dyar, Jr., was not your average entomologist in accomplishment, demeanor, or eccentricity. But he was indeed a fascinating character, and Epstein's book comprehensively describes his interesting life." --American Entemologist
"Epstein's writing is clear and enthralling, drawing the reader from one surreal event in Dyar's life to another... The acknowledgements are extensive, showing the level of research and scholarship that went into the book's production...I highly recommend this book... If you are looking for a biography that puts reality television to shame, search no further." --News of The Lepidopterists' Society
"Combining the professional publications with personal and public resources, the author reveals a depth not only to Dyar's personality but to the entire field of entomology in the latter half of the 19th century. ...Epstein successfully weaves together the personal, professional, and quirky dimensions of Dyar's life providing readers with a more complete context for understanding his contributions." --THE QUARTERLY REVIEW OF BIOLOGY
"[This] book is as informative as it is entertaining. Once I started reading...I was seized with an undeniable fancy to keep going." -- Martin J. Andree, Newsletter of the Michigan Entomological Society