Café Neandertal

Praise for Cafe Neandertal [A] beautifully crafted book . . . Bahrami is a wonderful writer who brings many of the attributes of the novel to a clear and compelling narrative that encapsulates a snapshot of the state of our current knowledge about Neanderthals. Peopled with a vast cast of fascinating characters, from village locals to querulous scientists, it brings to life the excitement of unearthing the past and describes the 'new, more enlightened era in studies of human evolution' that is dawning. -Cosmos Magazine Highly recommended for archaeology and prehistory buffs and armchair travelers. -Booklist, starred review With a pilgrim's reverence and a scientist's exactitude, Bahrami captures the textures, smells, and sounds of the excavation sites and adjacent towns . . . At the heart of this story is Bahrami's trek through densely overgrown prehistoric territory in search of a visceral connection to and deeper understanding of all humankind. -Publishers Weekly Written with all the flair and enthusiasm of an experienced writer eager to share her love of her subject. -Kirkus Reviews Ms. Bahrami has written a very readable book, blending personal travel experience and history in a relatively off-the-radar swath of France. She seamlessly marries archeology and Gallic culture that brings the region's people and history to life. -David Farley, author of An Irreverent Curiosity We need to understand who we were in order to know where we are headed. In the caves and forests of France's Dordogne region, Beebe Bahrami guides us on a haunting encounter with what may be our earlier selves, a creature whose passions and powers and motives we have only begun to fathom. A fascinating read for anyone who claims to be human. -Peter Stark, author of Astoria: John Jacob Astor and Thomas Jefferson's Lost Pacific Empire; A Story of Wealth, Ambition, and Survival