Christine Kenneally
Christine Kenneally is an Australian-American journalist and author known for her work on science, language, and culture. She has written for publications such as The New Yorker, The New York Times, and Slate, and is the author of books including 'The Invisible History of the Human Race'.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Ghosts Of The Orphanage
A Story of Mysterious Deaths, a Conspiracy of Silence, and a Search for Justice
The book delves into the harrowing and often hidden history of abuse within orphanages, uncovering decades of systemic cruelty and neglect faced by vulnerable children. Through meticulous research and personal testimonies, it reveals the traumatic experiences endured by orphans, shedding light on the long-lasting impact of these institutions on their lives. The narrative exposes the complicity of various societal and religious organizations in perpetuating these injustices, while also highlighting the resilience and courage of survivors who seek justice and healing.
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2. The Invisible History Of The Human Race
How DNA and History Shape Our Identities and Our Futures
This compelling exploration delves into the intricate tapestry of human history, weaving together genetics, genealogy, and personal stories to reveal how our past shapes our present and future. It examines the profound impact of inherited traits, cultural legacies, and historical events on individual identities and societal structures. By unraveling the invisible threads that connect us to our ancestors, the narrative offers a fresh perspective on the enduring influence of history, challenging readers to reconsider the forces that have silently guided human evolution and cultural development over millennia.
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3. The First Word
The Search for the Origins of Language
An accessible exploration of how language might have arisen and evolved, weaving together evidence from linguistics, evolution, genetics, primatology, archaeology, and child development to argue that speech emerged through intertwined biological and cultural processes. It surveys major debates—sudden versus gradual origins, gesture versus voice, and uniquely human traits versus shared primate foundations—and examines findings from ape communication, the FOXP2 gene, and the fossil record. Through interviews and on-the-ground reporting, it captures a scientific field overturning old certainties and converging on a nuanced, multidisciplinary account of how humans came to talk.
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