To Know a Fly
Brief Summary: The book, To Know a Fly by Vincent G. Dethier, is about a scientist who fell in love with the fly. Professor Dethier isn't like most scientists who are idolized for their accomplishments and rejected for the lack of ability to communicate with society. He was known for being an outstanding researcher, and he also had the wonderful gift of communication. The fact that he was fascinated by the knowledge that could be obtained from such a simple species, such as the fly, also made him popular with the public. The main focus of the book involves Professor Dethier designing and performing various experiments. Each experiment done by Professor Dethier is very simple, therefore the reader is informed, and as Professor Dethier adds interesting facts about the experiments of the fly the reader can interpret it easier. Professor Dethier begins the book by explaining how science and scientist are often misunderstood. He continues by stating that anyone can be a scientist if they want wish. However, they must posses certain characteristics such as love for nature, curiosity of life, and a soaring imagination. After convincing the reader that they can understand and appreciate science, Professor Dethier begins to inform the reader about the fly. He begins by defending the fly. Most everyone has a mutual understanding that flies are pests and are often considered to be disease infested. Most people don't even want to be in the presence of a fly. Moreover, flies aren't exactly the type of animal you would care to learn about so the Professor convinces you of the importance of research on even the simplest or seemingly unimportant animals. One characteristic he focuses on in regards to the fly is the fact that the fly is special because the insect can "fly." This is a relatively simple concept, but if he earns some respect, for the fly, from the readers, he will be able to gather their interests, rather than allowing them to think they know everything