Smithsonian scientist Nick Pyenson takes readers to the frontlines of palaeontological whale research, from the cool halls deep inside the Smithsonian's priceless fossil collection to the frigid fishing decks on Antarctic whaling stations, to the largest fossil whalebone site on Earth, in the blazing hot desert of Chile. He tells a story of scientific discovery that is equal parts field work, guidebook and memoir to bring readers closer to the most enigmatic and beloved animals of all time.