Below the Edge of Darkness

Exploring Light and Life in the Deep Sea

By: Edith Widder

Narrated by: Allyson Ryan

Edith Widder grew up determined to become a marine biologist. But after complications from a surgery during college caused her to go temporarily blind, she became fascinated by light as well as the power of optimism.

Below the Edge of Darkness explores the depths of the planet's oceans as Widder seeks to understand bioluminescence, one of the most important and widely used forms of communication in nature. In the process, she reveals hidden worlds and a dazzling menagerie of behaviours and animals. Alongside Widder, we experience life-and-death equipment malfunctions and witness breakthroughs in technology and understanding, all of it set against a growing awareness of the deteriorating health of our largest and least understood ecosystem.

©2021 Edith Widder (P)2021 Hachette Audio UK

Critic reviews

"A book of marvels, marvellously written." (Richard Dawkins)

"Edie's story is one of hardscrabble optimism, two-fisted exploration and groundbreaking research. As I've said many times, I'd have wrapped my submersible, the Deepsea Challenger, in bacon if it would have lured the elusive giant squid from the depths. In Below the Edge of Darkness, Edie tells you how she did it." (James Cameron)

"A pioneering marine biologist takes us down into the deep ocean in this 'thrilling blend of hard science and high adventure." (The New York Times)

"Edie's story is one of hardscrabble optimism, two-fisted exploration and groundbreaking research. She's done things I dream of doing." (James Cameron)