When Paola Totaro lost her sense of smell to Covid in March 2020, she found herself trapped in a sensory vacuum. In a quest for answers, she embarked on a journey of discovery to unravel the mysteries -and eccentricities - of the fifth sense.

From the theories of ancient philosophers to the cutting-edge laboratories of 21st-century neuroscience, On the Scent explores the mysteries of our ʻCinderellaʼ sense. It offers a unique glimpse into the world of those born without smell as well as those who lose it; exploring how smell can be a key indicator of declining physical health; and offering up the latest research that can offer hope to the millions of people worldwide who have suffered sensory loss.

"Enthralling, moving, and elegantly written."

-Peter Godfrey-Smith, author of Other Minds

"An engaging read . . . packed with insights and observations that bring this topic to life for everyone."

-Professor Barry Smith, Centre for the Study of the Senses

"Destined to be a bible for anyone who has lost their sense of smell."

-Chrissi Kelly, AbScent

"This book will profoundly change the way you think about your ability to smell and how its loss affects our lives."

-Fiona Fox, Director of the Science and Media Centre and author of Beyond the Hype