The latest publication by Richard Dawkins is a miscellany from the last few decades, with many of the themes covered more thoroughly in his previous books. Still, the point of this compilation is not to explore new territory, but rather to reflect on Dawkins’ development as a writer.

As the book moves from explanations of the intricacies of evolutionary theory, to his berating of religion, to endearing stories from his youth and personal life, what emerges is an interesting and rewarding profile of the author. Indeed, it’s a side of Dawkins not readily apparent in his other work.

A perennially divisive figure, Dawkins does display more subtelty in these writings than in his often fearsome public appearances. While most people will be able to take something of value from Science In The Soul, it’s more of an appendix than an introduction, and best approached after reading the author’s earlier publications.