Descent of Man

by T.C. Boyle
Descent of Man cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Short Story Collections
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  • ID: 10172
  • Added: 2026-01-16
  • Updated: 2026-01-16
  • ISBN: 9780140299946
  • Publisher: Penguin Books
  • Published: 1990-07-27
  • Reviews: 3

T.C. Boyle's Descent of Man is a collection of seventeen short stories that defy expectations and delve into the absurd. Each story offers a unique perspective on the world, from a primate researcher falling for a chimp to a Norse poet overcoming bard-block. Boyle's energetic language and dark humor create a surreal and satirical exploration of human evolution. The stories are filled with delirious fantasy and surreal satire, providing a brilliant commentary on what mankind has become. This collection is a testament to Boyle's unique voice and his ability to captivate readers with his imaginative and thought-provoking narratives.

Reviews
Eric Lanke's Blog · 2013-07-27
engaging 4.50

The prose is exceptional, capturing the essence of Boyle's unique view of the world. The book defies expectations and launches into the absurd.

The reviewer praises the prose in "Descent of Man," noting that it captures the essence of Boyle's unique view of the world. The book is described as defying expectations and launching into the absurd, which is seen as a strength. The reviewer appreciates Boyle's ability to create a world that is both familiar and surreal, making the reading experience engaging and thought-provoking. The prose is highlighted as exceptional, contributing to the overall impact of the collection.

Quick quotes

    The windows were streaked with red. The music was too loud. No one noticed. It was another day.

    The prose is Boyle at his very best.

    The words are sharp and engaging, capturing the essence of Boyle's unique view of the world.

Only Good Books · 2011-08-23
entertaining 4.50

The collection is sardonic and absurd, making it a favorite. The prose is sharp and engaging.

The reviewer finds "Descent of Man" to be a standout collection among Boyle's work. They appreciate the sardonic and absurd tone, which makes the book both entertaining and thought-provoking. The prose is described as sharp and engaging, with Boyle's unique voice shining through. This collection is seen as a favorite due to its ability to defy expectations and launch readers into the absurd.

Quick quotes

    His collection DESCENT OF MAN is probably my favorite.

    Like much of his other work, it is sardonic and absurd.

    The prose is Boyle at his very best.

The New York Times · 1979-04-01
clever 4.00

The book is filled with energetic language and a satirical edge. It offers a unique perspective on the evolution of mankind.

The reviewer highlights the book's energetic language and satirical tone. They appreciate the unique perspective it offers on the evolution of mankind, noting that Boyle's use of language is particularly striking. The dedication page alone sets the tone with a playful nod to Tarzan's "Ungowa." Overall, the book is seen as a clever and engaging exploration of human nature through a satirical lens.

Quick quotes

    "Descent of Man" is loaded with energetic language.

    On the dedication page, T. Coraghessan Boyle offers us Tarzan's "Ungowa,"

    With that half of the world's population in mind, Boyle has written a book that is both funny and serious.

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