The Voyage of the Beagle (Penguin Classics)

This is a classic work in any version, but it's worth noting that it is an abridged edition (reduced by about one third, according to the editors) of the original 1839 text. This differs in many details from the more familiar second edition of 1845. These differences primarily reflect the advances (not to say evolution!) of Darwin's thinking in the intervening years, and in this sense the earlier version, which records Darwin's initial impressions, is perhaps of greater interest. But I was startled to find that Darwin's famous and very moving remarks about slavery, which grace the final chapter of the 1845 version, are nowhere to be found in the 1839 text. Unfortunately there does not seem to be an edition of comparable quality presenting the 1845 text (let alone a variorum edition -- now that would be interesting!). So this may be the best available edition. Nonetheless, buyer beware.

Much as is the case with the Penguin edition of Darwin's "On the Origin of Species," this relatively inexpensive edition is packed with helpful features that add to the reader's understanding of what Darwin was about on his prolonged scientific voyage. First among these features is an excellent introduction by Janet Browne and Michael Neve, both of that wonderful Wellcome Institute in London. Dr. Browne is the author of what many consider to be the finest biography of Darwin ever written; Dr. Neve also has contributed to the Darwin literature. Although 26 pages in length, a bit shorter than that in the "Origin" edition by J.W. Burrow, this introduction nicely puts the "Journal of Researches" into context, while pointing out several areas that are of special interest to the reader. While the text is abridged about 1/3 in length, a Note carefully explains how and why the deletions were made. For example, nothing relating to the Galapagos has been cut. The editors have added a brief guide to the individuals and books mentioned in the text which is quite helpful. Also added as appendices are the Admiralty Instructions for the Beagle voyage and an essay by Captain Robert FitzRoy on "Remarks with reference to the Deluge," reflecting his reversion to traditional Christian thinking during the voyage. Several very helpful maps and a chronology are also included, which come in quite handy. Obviously, it is of immeasurable value to read the "Journal of Researches" in conjunction wit the "Origin." One comes away truly amazed at the dedication and professionalism of Darwin (who was only 22 when he commenced his five year excursion) as he collects his speciments and charts various geological dimensions. So, this book is to my way of thinking indispensable for getting a grasp on Darwin, and this skillfully edited edition makes the experience a most pleasing one.

If you want to learn about Charles Darwin start reading from the voyage of the Beagle. You will see who he is and how he worked through

I enjoyed reading Darwin's account of his observations of the countries and islands visited by the HMS Beagle from 1831-1836. This free version contains no illustrations, so I printed several maps of the areas Darwin described for reference. For example, the Galapagos islands Darwin visited in 1835 have different names today (i.e. James is now Santiago; Indefatigable is now Santa Cruz).

This is a book I have always felt I should read. It did not disappoint however it requires reader to have a certain scientific background or understanding. Darwin limits his descriptions of the actual time on board, hardships etc but most of the narrative is about his on shore treks. I am certainly glad I read this

Book was a little older/worn than I thought itd be (super yellow and crispy) but very readable and that serves it's purpose!

I really enjoyed this book, an amazing 5 years adventure of Charles Darwin and Captain FitzRoy circumnavigating the world. Specially interesting for me was the journey through Chile, from cape Horn to Valparaiso my home town, since he provide a rich account of the people, geography and cities in those years. Also the visit to the Atlantic Island of St Helena where Napoleon was yet buried.Along the book there are some comments of Darwin about the differences of colonization made by Spanish and English settlement that I totally agree.

Very educating and thoughtful book.

The Voyage of the Beagle is perhaps the most readable of Darwin’s writings, especially for those who are not experts in the zoology and biology. I would highly recommend it as reading material for someone travelling to the places Darwin visited in the Beagle (Canary Islands, Cape Verde Islands, South America, Australia, Cocos Islands, Mauritius,…) or with an interest in the development of the young Darwin’s thought.

This book revealed Darwin to be a fascinating person, who was himself intrigued by all he found on this lengthy voyage. He was evidently very fit and prepared to undergo some deprivations to explore many of the lands he visited. The way he records his thoughts and observations are quite readable and generally comprehensible to the layman; we learnt a lot and were also entertained. Incidentally, the book is about the places visited and almost nothing about the voyage itself.

Not the best quality, pages are very thin and tear easily but you get what you pay for I suppose.

This book is the story of the long journey made by Darwin that gives him the data for the Origin of Species. One of the joys of this book is that Darwin is a wonderful writer. It is amazing to think that he went on the trip as a gentleman companion for the captain who was a biblical/literal christian and who wanted someone to talk to who was of the same social class/education. I would fully recommend this book as it is the precursor to one of the greatest books of all time.

ive not read it yet but its going to be so useful thank you!