'Stenn jams an encyclopedia's worth of material into a mere 256 pages. An excellent layperson's introduction to the vast and compelling story of hair.' - Publishers Weekly 'Stenn explores the intricacies of hair from biological, anthropological, and cultural perspectives, developing a well-rounded overview of a seemingly obtuse subject. The more I learn about hair, the more I'm convinced that studying it is a doorway into learning about everything that matters-where we come from, where we might be going, and why we're so unbelievably obsessed with our hair.' - Elizabeth Benedict, editor, 'Me, My Hair and I: Twenty-seven Women Untangle an Obsession'

Ask Kurt Stenn, author of this lively history, and he'll explain the origins and science of hair in terrifically readable stories. 'Ask a woman about her hair, and she just might tell you the story of her life. A spirited, informative history of a fascinating fiber.' - Kirkus Reviews

'An edifying look at the biology, physiology, and history of hair. He's a clear and enthusiastic explainer of follicles and shafts, the genes and growth patterns behind our fur, and all the strange things that can go wrong.' - Boston Globe 'Kurt Stenn, a scientist who has studied hair for the past three decades, proves in this lively new book that even the lowliest whisker merits attention. Publisher: Pegasus Books ISBN: 9781605989556 Number of pages: 256 Weight: 427 g Dimensions: 236 x 163 x 25 mm MEDIA REVIEWS Perfect for fans of Mark Kurlansky, Hair is a compelling read based solidly in historical and scientific research that will delight any reader who wants to know more about the world around them. In addition to expelling the biological basis and the evolutionary history of hair, the fiber is put into context: hair in history (as tied to textile mills and merchant associations), hair as a construct for cultural and self-identity, hair in the arts (as the material for artist's brushes and musical instruments), hair as commodity (used for everything from the inner lining of tennis balls to an absorbent to clean up oil spills), and hair as evidence in criminology. In Hair, Kurt Stenn - one of the world's foremost hair follicle experts - takes readers on global journey through history, from fur merchant associations and sheep farms to medical clinics and patient support groups, to show the remarkable impact hair has had on human life.įrom a completely bald beauty queen with alopecia to the famed hair-hang circus act, Stenn weaves the history of hair through a variety of captivating examples, with sources varying from renaissance merchants' diaries to interviews with wig makers, modern barbers, and more. Most people don't give a second thought to the stuff on their head, but hair has played a crucial role in in fashion, the arts, sports, commerce, forensics, and industry.

Kurt stenn