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Vital Organs

A History of the World's Most Famous Body Parts

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Vital Organs

By: Suzie Edge
Narrated by: Suzie Edge
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About this listen

 The remarkable stories of the world's most famous body parts.
Louis XIV's rear end inspired the British National Anthem.
Queen Victoria's armpit led the development of antiseptics.
Robert Jenkin's ear started a war.


All too often, historical figures feel distant and abstract; more myth and legend than real flesh and blood. These stories of bodies and its parts remind us that history's most-loved, and most-hated, were real breathing creatures who inhabited organs and limbs just like us - until they're cut off that is.

Medical historian Dr Suzie Edge investigates over 40 cases of how we've used, abused, dug up, displayed, experimented on, and worshipped body parts, including why Percy Shelley's heart refused to burn; how Yao Niang's toes started a 1000 year long ritual; why a giant's bones are making us rethink medical ethics; and the strange case of Hitler's right testicle.©2023 Suzie Edge History History & Commentary History & Philosophy Medicine & Health Care Industry Science Thought-Provoking

Critic reviews

...a bracing adventure, and one where our ancestors are not reduced to characters of myth and legend, but real people of flesh and blood. It is through this most intimate dissection that the past is brought so vividly to life.
It's an incisive book (pun intended) that will leave you with a newfound appreciation of the vessel that carries you through life
All stars
Most relevant
I’m so sorry I’ve finished the book- I’m going to wait a while and listen to it again. Very interesting, informative and entertaining. I’m going to look for more words by the author. Really good read.

Loved it

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I found this book enlightening, educational and fascinating throughout. There is enough respectful humour to save it from being macabre and, with all the information crammed in, will certainly get another read from me at some time in the future.

A prized book in my collection

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Suzie has done it again. Educational, fun, and such a calming and soothing voice to listen to. Thank you Suzie!

Perfection

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Lively mix of anatomy and mini biographies incorporating notorious body parts. Funny, informative and nicely read

Fun facts

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I love every book by Suzie Edge. This book is made even better by listening to her read it. Can’t wait for another book.

Favourite author

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