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The Story of Shit

The Story of Shit

Midas Dekkers

  • awardShortlisted, The Vondel Prize, United Kingdom, 2019
  • Translated by Nancy Forest-Flier

    We are very discreet. We disappear into a small room, perform the task, flush, wash and reappear as if nothing happened. Of course, hygiene is necessary—some faecal bacteria, if re-ingested, can cause very serious problems—and unpleasant aromas are best kept at bay.

    But in all this hygienic discretion have we lost touch with an integral part of ourselves—something as much a part of living as breathing, eating and sleeping? Something enriching, creative and even enjoyable.

    In The Story of Shit, Dutch biologist Midas Dekkers presents a personal, cultural, scientific, historical and environmental account of shit, from the digestive process and the fascinating workings of the gut, to the act of defecation and toilet etiquette. With irreverent humour and a compelling narrative style, Dekkers brings a refreshing, entertaining and illuminating perspective to a once-taboo subject.

    Read some golden nuggets from The Story of Shit here. 

    Read an extract from The Story of Shit in the Monthly here

    REVIEWS

    Australian ($): ‘Dekkers is a reservoir of knowledge (and shit). Fans of his humorous, distinctly European and meandering style of prose will enjoy The Story of Shit, which includes a collection of delightful black-and-white illustrations.’  
    Australian Book Review
     
    Sydney Morning Herald 

    Midas Dekkers
    About the Author

    Midas Dekkers is a bestselling Dutch writer and biologist. His books include Physical Exercise, The Way of All Flesh, Dearest Pet and The Larva.

    Nancy Forest-Flier is a Dutch-to-English translator. She was educated in the USA and now lives in the Netherlands.

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    About the Translator
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    Extent:
    304pp
    Format:
    Paperback
    Text publication date:
    29 January 2018
    ISBN:
    9781925355178
    AU Price:
    $32.99
    NZ Price:
    $38.00
    Themes:
    defecation, cultural histories, social histories
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    Praise for Midas Dekkers
    andThe Story of Shit

    ‘[A] remarkable foray into every aspect of diet, digestion and defecation…This is a fascinating, milestone work that should run out of bookshops like shit off a hot shovel.’

    ‘It is such a wondrous thing when a scientist can explain facts in a humorous, straightforward and thrilling fashion.’

    ‘A masterful writing style that is not only unique in biology but without equal in the whole of Dutch literature. The Story of Shit shows Dekkers once again to be in possession of a golden pen.’

    ‘For those who aren’t aware: we are not our brain, we are our gut. There is always that unmistakable Midas touch: his brilliant, sharp style makes it hard to suppress a laugh or a smile.’

    ‘Dekkers doesn’t hold back in his brimming history…You learn a lot…So, do I recommend a book that tells how the CIA tried using transmitters disguised as tiger turds to eavesdrop on the Viet Cong? Oh…faeces, yes.’

    ‘A funny but earnest investigation—part social history, biology lesson and cultural study—that takes Chaucerian delight in the subject.’

    The Story of Shit is entertaining, amusing, educational and revealing…Sitting on the toilet will never be the same’

    ‘A fascinating, very funny look at something common to us all.’

    ‘[An] utterly unique, bizarre and interesting take on this universal-yet-taboo topic…Dekkers is an enthusiastic proponent of crap.’

    ‘Intestinal fortitude required. Prudes beware.’

    ‘Packed with humour…The Story of Shit is an enjoyable romp through culture, science, and history.’

    ‘Dekkers is a reservoir of knowledge (and shit). Fans of his humorous, distinctly European and meandering style of prose will enjoy The Story of Shit, which includes a collection of delightful black-and-white illustrations.’

    Other editions ofThe Story of Shit
    • The Story of Shit
      ebook
      ISBN: 9781922253767
      29 January 2018
      Buy ebook