PositiveLibrary Journal... this book by British Columbia–based ecology writer Bourgon delves into the complexities of the illegal timber market in an evenhanded manner. Focusing primarily on forestry in the Pacific Northwest, the author explains how timber poaching—although difficult to prosecute—is an offense with significant long-term ramifications to the global economy and the well-being of all living creatures. At the same time, Bourgon’s interviews with poachers (and with police, former loggers, Indigenous communities, and international timber cartels) help readers to be sympathetic to the circumstances. The book is grounded in these interviews and research, but it also dips into narrative nonfiction that puts readers in the mindset of its subjects (e.g., the anxious moment of stumbling onto a recently abandoned poaching site). It might be hard to sell readers on the unsexy crime of stealing trees, but there’s much of interest in this book (high-tech efforts to catch poachers and identify stolen trees; the supply chain by which illegal timber from around the world finds its way into U.S. stores and homes) ... Fascinating for motivated readers.
Richard Rhodes
PositiveLibrary JournalAnd admiring biography ... The depth of scientific detail in Rhodes\'s account might lose some readers, but these explanations are necessary to understanding the significance of Wilson\'s work and his place in the history of science and conservation. However, this biography only briefly addresses Wilson\'s racism, sexism, and ties to eugenicist movements ... A comprehensive account, by an impressive science writer, of one of the world\'s most influential biologists and his profound contributions.
Sylvain Tesson, Tr. Frank Wynne
MixedLibrary JournalTesson writes—in snippets, rather than chapters—beautiful observations about the scenery, spiritual insights, and humanity in poetical bursts. While the book\'s subtitle suggests that the snow leopard features prominently, only a small portion of the work focuses on the animal. Readers drawn to lyrical yet adventurous narratives will enjoy this one. Tesson\'s deep thoughts are softened by his jokes, but some of the humor or asides might not resonate with an American audience (European readers would probably have a better understanding of the context). The story\'s heavy reliance on Buddhism and Taoism to ponder nature and patience might also divide some readers.
Bill François
PositiveLibrary JournalReaders who appreciate nature stories will like this short, punchy book, although some transitions in the storytelling are bumpy, and readers will need some background knowledge in order to understand a few of the references. This pop science book is inflected with memoir, with François narrating his travels around the world and describing his friends in various subcultures, but there is little development of figures beyond the author. The book is really about François’s connection with marine life ... For people who love the aquatic world and those who aspire to.
Edward O. Wilson
PositiveLibrary JournalWilson wants to inspire both adults and children to see the adventurous side of studying ants, how they communicate with one another, and how we communicate with them ... Readers seeking an accessible natural history on an often-misunderstood insect will appreciate Wilson’s modest, conversational tone in this brief look at his lifetime of appreciating nature’s small wonders.
Patrik Svensson, Trans. by Agnes Broomé
RaveLibrary JournalThere is surprisingly little known about this fish; a 20-year study to pinpoint their origin was interrupted by World War I. Scientific discoveries are few and far between, but the well-paced writing here motivates readers to learn more about these secretive animals that are in danger of becoming extinct. While exploring this historical path, Svensson quietly weaves in his own experience with eels, focusing on his father and how we interpret our own histories as humans, collectively and individually. The work poses questions about philosophy, the metaphysical, and the spiritual, as well as scientific issues, in a way that will stir readers ... This beautifully crafted book challenges us not only to understand eels but our own selves. Highly recommended.
Carl Safina
MixedLibrary JournalSafina’s frank conversations with experts and wonderfully descriptive writing from the field places readers right in the action. However, he also sometimes rephrases similar points and poses questions for thought, musing until readers lose an understanding of the initial thesis ... Though wide ranging at times, this work should interest fans of Safina and general readers seeking to learn more about animal behavior.
Richard Wrangham
MixedLibrary JournalWrangham has clearly done his research ... Various species are examined in depth, especially chimpanzees and other primates, sometimes more so than humans, which makes the subtitle somewhat misleading. The author aims to provide a work accessible to those outside the scientific field, offering a great deal of information. However, some readers might struggle with the dense, scholarly writing style ... For academic-minded readers.
Marty Crump
PositiveLibrary JournalPeople will be challenged to think more deeply about the world around them every day while reading this book ... Whimsical illustrations add charm, and readers will appreciate this volume more as a type of daily devotional than a straight read-through since it\'s easier to notice the overlap when reading without pause (i.e., repetitive entries on turtle or shark appreciation). The bibliography is sorted by date, making it easy to find more information on topics of particular interest ... For readers short on time but big on appreciating the world in new ways.
