I'm not sure if it's possible for a book centered around the world of parasites to be both intellectually satisfying and surprisingly poetic in presentation, but those are the two experiences I kept having with "Hidden Creatures: Luscious Leeches, Bashful Botflies, and the Wondrous History-Shaping World of Parasites," a literary adventure put forth by lifelong parasite devotee and wonderdude Dr. Dino J. Martins.

Martins doesn't compromise on the facts here, immersing us in more than we could ever want to know about this world in which he's spent his entire life. However, there's also a remarkably adorable passion that unfolds here that will have you rethinking these misunderstood creatures and very likely wishing you'd stumble across this enthusiastic scientific hero and his ability to both demystify these creatures in a way that's both accessible and endearing.

In addition to leeches, botflies, and parasites (oh my), Dr. Martins introduces us to the tapeworm, a remarkable being that can grow 120 feet in length within the gut of a whale. We learn bunches about the tsetse fly and a whole lot more.

I can't say that "Hidden Creatures" will make you fall in love with parasites, but it sure will give you a deeper appreciation for how these creatures are a vital part of every ecosystem and, in some cases, their nasty reputation is quite undeserved.

Dr. Martins is an award-winning entomologist and biologist from Kenya. He's devoted his life to demystifying these fascinating beings he presents here. By the end, you'll be thankful he does.

I will confess that I occasionally struggled with the tonal rhythms of "Hidden Creatures," Dr. Martins occasionally waxing a little too eloquently. However, it's his enthusiasm that's so infectious and that's what really shines through here while we're being both informed and engaged with his world.

And what an amazing world it is. Dr. Martins takes us around the world with his hosts and collaborators. We learn about places most of us have never been. We learn about animals and parasites most of us have spent a lifetime trying to avoid. I'm not running off to the Amazon anytime soon, but I certainly have enjoyed reading about the adventures of someone who has done so.

With delightful insights and an almost childlike curiosity, Dr. Martins has crafted one of the year's most unique reading adventures. For those who enter this world, Dr. Martins has crafted a literary adventure for those willing to open themselves to an entirely new aspect of history and the world we live in.

Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic