This book gives a very balanced factual look at how we destroy our microbiome with the overuse of antibacterial products, western diet / lifestyle and drugs especially antibiotics. One of the most informative books on the microbiome, dispels some myths, challenges the new multi billion dollar probiotic / fermented food movement. In a million tiny ways, I Contain Multitudes will radically change how you think about the natural world - and how you see yourself. And we meet the scientists who are manipulating these microscopic partners to our advantage.

We see how bacteria can alter our response to cancer-fighting drugs, tune our immune system, influence our evolution and even modify our genetic make-up. We learn the invisible and wondrous science behind the corals that construct mighty reefs and the squid that create their own light shows. In I Contain Multitudes, Ed Yong opens our eyes and invites us to marvel at ourselves and other animals in a new light, less as individuals and more as thriving ecosystems. They also hold the key to understanding all life on earth. These microscopic companions sculpt our organs, protect us from diseases, guide our behaviour and bombard us with their genes.

It's an entire world, a colony full of life. Your body is teeming with tens of trillions of microbes.

I contain multitudes ed young