The discovery of the living coelacanth - one of the greatest biological finds of the twentieth century - will forever be linked with the name of JLB Smith. An intense, irascible, eccentric man, JLB (as he was widely known) and his wife Margaret were remarkable South African scientists whose extraordinary contributions changed the course of the biological sciences. This, the first biography of JLB and Margaret Smith, traces their formative years and serendipitous meeting, leading up to the discovery of the coelacanth, and the tumultuous years that followed.

Illustrated with images of their fascinating lives, as well as a 16-page color section, this lively account is essential reading for anyone interested in the excitement of science and its relevance to our everyday lives.

- Traces their formative years and serendipitous meeting, leading up to the discovery of the coelacanth, and the tumultuous years that followed.
- Details their punitive work ethic, eccentric and rugged lifestyle, and their astonishingly productive lives
- A story awash with adventure, travel, discovery, risk-taking, near-death experiences - and their extraordinary contribution to science.