Examines the concept of animal and human longevity, covering what makes the longest-lived humans unique among humans, but going beyond to animals like the Greenland shark that can live for hundreds of years, and even animals that seem able to live forever. Discusses the scientific advances that genetic manipulation may make possible for human life to be extended. Includes a glossary.

Introduction : The whale that got away -- Bowhead whales : slow, cold, and very old -- Greenland sharks : Arctic ancients -- A hydra and a jellyfish : near immortals -- Glass sponge reefs and stromatolites : back from the dead -- Tuatara : reptile relics -- Pando and king clone : persistent plants -- Inside DNA : searching for longevity genes.