Earth Sciences, Geography & Environment Books

Book Synopsis?“Gets deep into the weeds, so to speak, of the microscopic architecture of plants and the biochemical processes at play.” —Washington Post Most gardeners realize that plants need to be fed, but many of us know little about the nature of the science involved. In Teaming with Nutrients, Jeff Lowenfels explains the basics of plant nutrition from an organic gardener’s perspective. In his trademark down-to-earth, style, Lowenfels explains the role of both macronutrients and micronutrients and shows gardeners how to provide these essentials through organic, easy-to-follow techniques. Along the way, Lowenfels provides easy-to-grasp lessons in the biology, chemistry, and botany needed to understand how nutrients get into the plant and what they do once they’re inside.

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Book SynopsisThe fourth edition of this bestselling book explains how to combine professional weather forecasts with information from self-assessment of the signs in the sky, as well as from websites and apps, to arrive at a local forecast of coming weather. The Weather Handbook is the essential guide to how the weather is formed, providing readers with the ability to look at the sky and interpret its signs. This handbook has been the standard reference for over 20 years for skippers and crews of cruising and racing yachts. The fourth edition has been updated and expanded with new photos and explanatory text, addressing new sources of weather information. There are countless websites and apps providing forecast data, and The Weather Handbook guides users in how to use and interpret this information for themselves, taking a general forecast for a wide area to provide a local forecast for a specific location.The perfect introduction to understanding weather - <Trade ReviewAn absolute must for anyone who needs a forecast truly applicable to you, wherever you are. * RNLI magazine *The Weather Handbook is written in a conversational style that helps break down the jargon. And there are helpful summaries ... The handbook would be great to keep onboard, not necessarily as a reference, but as some easy and educational reading. * Sailing (US magazine) *The goal of the book is to teach readers to look at the sky, interpret its signs and leverage their knowledge to asses the coming weather. * Soundings (US) *

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Book SynopsisAn Inspiring Memoir, for Fans of Jane Goodall, Dian Fossey, and Frans De Waal. In her enchanting memoir, Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka, Uganda’s first wildlife veterinarian, tells the remarkable story from her animal-loving childhood to her career protecting endangered mountain gorillas and other wild animals. She is also the defender of people as a groundbreaking promoter of human public health and an advocate for revolutionary integrated approaches to saving our planet. In an increasingly interconnected world, animal and human health alike depend on sustainable solutions and Dr. Gladys has developed an innovative approach to conservation among the endangered Mountain Gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and their human neighbors.Walking with Gorillas takes the reader on an incredible personal journey with Dr. Gladys, from her early days as a student in Uganda, enduring the assassination of her father during civil war, to her veterinarian education in England to establishing the first veterinary department for the Ugandan government to founding one of the first organizations in the world that enables people to coexist with wildlife through improving the health and wellbeing of both. Her award-winning approach reduced the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on critically endangered mountain gorillas. In the face of discrimination and a male dominated world, one woman’s passion and determination to build a brighter future for the local wildlife and human community offers inspiration and insights into what is truly possible for our planet when we come together."Her story is amazing and I recommend this book to everyone interested in conservation, alleviating poverty, and the role of women in society. But perhaps most importantly it is a truly inspiring story of how one determined and dedicated woman overcame many setbacks and faced many dangers to follow and realize her dream. She has made a huge difference to conservation in Uganda and she is an inspiring example to young—and not so young—people everywhere." -- Jane Goodall, PhD, DBE and UN Messenger of Peace, from the foreword Trade Review“I recommend this book to everyone interested in conservation, alleviating poverty, and the role of women in society. But perhaps most importantly it is a truly inspiring story of how one determined and dedicated woman overcame many setbacks and faced many dangers to follow and realize her dream.”—Jane Goodall, PhD, DBE and UN Messenger of Peace (from the foreword) “This uplifting debut by conservationist Kalema-Zikusoka reflects on her upbringing in Uganda and career as a wildlife veterinarian. Born in Kampala, Uganda, in 1970, the author was two years old when her father, a former cabinet minister, was abducted and murdered by the forces of then-president Idi Amin. She recounts devoting herself to her education and enrolling at the University of London Royal Veterinary College, becoming at age 26 Uganda’s first veterinarian specializing in wild animals. Vivid anecdotes detail the sometimes gritty nature of her work with endangered mountain gorillas, as when she describes using sugar to help reduce swelling around a gorilla’s prolapse. Through her work, she became “convinced that you couldn’t keep the gorillas healthy without improving the health and well-being of the people with whom they shared their fragile habitats” and began studying disease transmission between humans and primates. That research, she relates, enabled her to successfully advocate for Uganda’s adoption of the “One Health” approach to conservation, which recognizes that human hygiene and health lead to better welfare for plants and animals. The heartwarming narrative testifies to the good that one person can achieve and illuminates the complex interdependence between human and their environments. Admirers of Jane Goodall will love this. (Feb.)—Publishers Weekly “Her zeal for animals and gorillas in particular, as witnessed in this book, have lead Gladys to ground breaking innovations in conservation winning her global awards. This is an awe-inspiring walk by a remarkable lady who stands to be counted among women of incredible determination and purpose.” —HRH Nnabagereka, Sylvia Nagginda Luswata, Queen of Buganda Kingdom, Uganda “We eight billion humans are in a turf war with all other living species, one so lopsided that co-existing with them might seem a lost cause—until you meet Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka. Her miraculous career, engagingly recounted here, has meant salvation for some of our rarest primate cousins and an inspiring reminder for us Homo sapiens of what imagination and persistence can accomplish,whatever the odds.”—Alan Weisman, author,The World Without Us andCountdown “Her vivid narration of the special relationship she has been able to cultivate with nature will leave you captivated and in an intense trance as she transports you to the deep woods of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and on an excursion that you will never forget.”—Kaddu Sebunya, CEO African Wildlife Foundation “With unwavering drive and passion, she transformed a childhood love of animals into a career as Uganda’s first wildlife veterinarian and one of Africa’s leading conservationists. Filled with adventure and told with candor and heart, Walking with Gorillas is an extraordinary story of an extraordinary life.”—Thor Hanson, author ofHurricane Lizards and Plastic Squid,andThe Impenetrable Forest:My Gorilla Years in Uganda “Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka is a true force of nature. Her riveting story of growing up in Uganda and overcoming challenges to pursue a veterinary profession, reads almost like fiction—full of adventure, drama, passion, and lots of big, furry primates.” —Meg Lowman, National Geographic Explorer and author of The Arbornaut: A Life Discovering the 8th Continent in the Trees Above Us “In one of the world’s most challenging environments, Dr. Gladys has put her life on the line to protect one of the world's most spectacular—and spectacularly threatened species, the mountain gorilla. A story which will inspire everyone, everywhere!”—Dr. Mark Plotkin, The Amazon Conservation Team, author of Tales of a Shaman’s Apprentice “A concise and compelling autobiography, from a resilient ‘bridge-builder’: Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka. It has been said: ‘When you build bridges, you get walked on from both sides,’—so true for Gladys who has faced prejudice from her own culture, for being a woman and for being African. But Gladys is a trailblazer, risk-taker and innovative. We all share this planet and it takes a person like Gladys to reimagine conservation and build bridges between culture and communities so that we all survive together. Gladys is my hero, Uganda’s hero, Africa’s hero, and the world’s hero.”—Catherine Kreutter, author of Old Mzee books “Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka is one of Africa’s greatest conservation ecoheroes. Her work on mountain gorillas and her innovative approaches linking this essential conservation activity with the health of human communities living in close proximity is truly ground-breaking and serves as a model for other projects around the world. It is wonderful to now have her story told in her own words in this inspiring and delightful new book.”—Russell A. Mittermeier, Ph.D., Chief Conservation Officer, Re:wild (formerly Global Wildlife Conservation) “Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka's pioneering efforts to save endangered gorillas by improving local human health have been an inspiration to conservationists around the world. Her new memoir details this incredible journey, including the adversity she had to overcome and what she's learned along the way. She artfully illustrates the complexities of conservation, sheds light on how protecting nature helps us protect ourselves, and offers insights that are applicable to conservation programs worldwide. I strongly recommend this book!”—Rhett Butler, Founder and CEO of Mongabay “Walking with Gorillas is an inspirational account of one veterinarian's unwavering effort to prevent disease spillover by promoting a "One Health" approach and always, above all, listening and prioritizing local community members’ voices to create a better world for humans, animals and nature. This decade began with grave reminder of the danger of diseases jumping from animals to people and back, something Dr. Gladys has been committed to protecting us and wildlife from during her entire professional life.”—Dr. William Karesh, Author Appointments at the Ends of the World, President, World Organisation for Animal Health Working Group on Wildlife “Uganda deserves to be better known for its astonishing wildlife. And I can think of no better guide than the nation’s first wildlife veterinarian. Meet Dr. Gladys and enter the incredible adventure that has been her life." — Dr. Carl Safina, author of Beyond Words: What Animals Think and Feel “Infused with the remarkable spirit of purpose, compassion and innovative thinking that is synonymous with Gladys herself, Walking with Gorillas is an inspiring memoir that showcases the importance of community-based conservation through one of Uganda’s most determined voices for wildlife. A captivating look at the dangers that humans pose to our closest of relatives, this book gives a compelling insight into the role that healthcare and women in society play in the author’s pioneering ‘One Health’ approach – one that the future of conservation surely depends upon. Simply, a must-read.”—Edward Whitley, OBE, Founder of Whitley Fund for Nature, Author of Gerald Durrell’s Army “Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka’s book, Walking With Gorillas, is a walk through the forests and landscapes of her life and the lives of those who have influenced her choices as a veterinarian, a leader, partner and mother. Her method for building community and improving methods for protection of the forest has not only had an impact on the survival of our closest relatives the great apes, it has added a chapter to our understanding of how to build a thriving relationship with nature. Her wisdom is what we urgently need as we meet the challenge of declining biodiversity and deforestation, pandemics and climate change. If the measure of a life is one’s legacy, Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka shows in her book that being part of a lineage is also important. Her learning from her forebearers while creating communities that live in harmony with all sentient beings is a model for public health, economic livelihoods and field science.”—Tom Cummings, Tallberg Foundation jury leader and Member Club of Rome, Chair, BLab Europe, Global Alliance for Banking on Values, Author of Leadership Landscapes

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsForewordAcknowledgementsPrologue1. Bloody Beasts2. Sea Change3. Blubber Choppers4. The Law of the Tongue5. War Zone6. A Turn for the Better7. The Whales in the Potato Field8. The Whales at the End of the World9. The Whale Jail10. Attack11. Family Matters12. Cut in StoneReferences

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Book SynopsisExtinction Rebellion are inspiring a whole generation to take action on climate breakdown. Now you can become part of the movement - and together, we can make history.It''s time. This is our last chance to do anything about the global climate and ecological emergency. Our last chance to save the world as we know it. Now or never, we need to be radical. We need to rise up. And we need to rebel.Extinction Rebellion is a global activist movement of ordinary people, demanding action from Governments. This is a book of truth and action. It has facts to arm you, stories to empower you, pages to fill in and pages to rip out, alongside instructions on how to rebel - from organising a roadblock to facing arrest. By the time you finish this book you will have become an Extinction Rebellion activist. Act now before it''s too late.Trade ReviewExtinction Rebellion is leading a new youthful politics that will change Britain * Guardian *The authors of This Is Not a Drill rightly identify climate change as an emergency... it is aimed at a curious public and those who may be thinking about joining in... as former archbishop of Canterbury Rowan William says at the end "it might just work". * New Scientist *Extinction Rebellion protests have WORKED! * Express *In a remarkably short space of time, Extinction Rebellion have fundamentally altered the public discourse on climate change. * Tank Magazine *

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Book SynopsisPhysical Geology is a classic introductory text that has helped countless students learn basic physical geology concepts for over 25 years. Students taking introductory physical geology to fulfill a science elective, as well as those contemplating a career in geology, will appreciate the accessible writing style and depth of coverage in Physical Geology. Table of ContentsChapter 1: Introducing Geology, the Essentials of Plate Tectonics, and Other Important ConceptsChapter 2: Atoms, Elements and MineralsChapter 3: Igneous Rocks, the Origin and Evolution of Magma, and Intrusive ActivityChapter 4: Volcanism and Extrusive RocksChapter 5: Weathering and SoilChapter 6: Sediment and Sedimentary RocksChapter 7: Metamorphism and Metamorphic RocksChapter 8: Time and GeologyChapter 9: Mass WastingChapter 10: Streams and FloodsChapter 11: GroundwaterChapter 12: Glaciers and GlaciationChapter 13: Deserts and Wind ActionChapter 14: Waves, Beaches, and CoastsChapter 15: Geologic StructuresChapter 16: EarthquakesChapter 17: Earth’s Interior and Geophysical PropertiesChapter 18: The Sea FloorChapter 19: Plate Tectonics—The Unifying TheoryChapter 20: Mountain Belts and the Continental CrustChapter 21: Global Climate ChangeChapter 22: ResourcesChapter 23: The Earth’s Companions

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Book SynopsisImpeccably researched and masterfully written, this book explains how and why humanity is driving itself off the cliff. Dahr Jamail, author, The End of IceWeaving together findings from a wide range of disciplines, Power traces how four key elements developed to give humans extraordinary power: tool making ability, language, social complexity, and the ability to harness energy sources ? most significantly, fossil fuels. It asks whether we have, at this point, overpowered natural and social systems, and if we have, what we can do about it.Has Homo sapiens one species among millions become powerful enough to threaten a mass extinction and disrupt the Earth''s climate? Why have we developed so many ways of oppressing one another? Can we change our relationship with power to avert ecological catastrophe, reduce social inequality, and stave off collapse?These questions and their answers will determine our fate.Trade Review"Heinberg's Power is a searing, unflinching revelation of what has driven us to our current existential crisis: humanity's quest for power. Impeccably researched and masterfully written, this book explains how and why humanity is driving itself off the cliff. If there is any hope for us to continue, Heinberg shows why it must come from efforts to limit our own power." — Dahr Jamail, author, The End of Ice "Richard Heinberg's panoramic review of known forms of power is both sobering and inspiring. Given our species' habitual methods for getting its way, be these methods physical, mental, or social, the outlook for our future is bleak indeed. Yet, Heinberg allows for the slim but real possibility of exercising restraint. If we are so persuaded, by wisdom or love for beauty, the future even now remains open. Indeed, such restraint returns us to ancient, almost forgotten appetites and capacities." — Joanna Macy, author, World As Lover, World As Self "It may be a moral idea that hard work pays off but if we need proof that it counts, this latest from Richard Heinberg carries all the evidence we need. His encyclopedic treatment of power is brilliant. It is sure to pop up in courses and living rooms like toast." — Wes Jackson, founder, The Land Institute "Heinberg goes to the very heart of the issue. Using his immense knowledge of biology, science, history, psychology, and the politics of energy, he shows that the environmental and social crises we face today have in their origin the insatiable human pursuit, and often abuse, of power, in all its forms. In showing us the path forward, Heinberg guides us to achieve power-limiting behavior so that we cannot just survive but thrive on a healthy planet and in healthy balance with one another." — Maude Barlow, author, activist, and co-founder, The Blue Planet Project "Power reminds us that Richard Heinberg is one of the most important public intellectuals in the conversation about society's future. Eminently readable and engaging, Power is breathtaking in its scope and insight. Heinberg persuasively argues that we have reached evolutionary limits to concentrated social power and that empathy and beauty are key to averting ecological and social catastrophe." — Chuck Collins, Institute for Policy Studies, author, The Wealth Hoarders "Power is a must read and a call to action for those seeking a sustainable, balanced, human future in harmony with the Earth. No guarantees, of course, but harnessing the power of sentient action certainly beats the alternative; of continuing our blind stumble only soon to be swept aside, as have many creatures before us." — Peter C. Whybrow, author, The Well-Tuned BrainTable of ContentsList of Figures List of Sidebars Acknowledgments Introduction 1. Power in Nature: From Mitochondria to Emotion and Deception The Basis of Life's Power Power and Bodies Power and Behaviors Proto-Human Powers 2. Power in the Pleistocene: On Spears, Fires, Furs, Words, and Flutes — And Why Men Are Such Power-Hogs Hands and Stone The Fire Ape Skins From Grunts to Sentences Gender Power The Power of Art 3. Power in the Holocene: The Rise of Social Inequality Gerdening, Big Men, and Chiefs: Power from Food Production Plow and Plunder: Kings and the First States Herding Cattle, Flogging Slaves: Power from Domestication Stories of Our Ancestors: Religion and Power Tools for Wording: Communication Technologies Numbers on Money Pathologies of Power 4. Power in the Anthropocene: The Wonderful World of Fossil Fuels It's All Energy The Coal Train Oil, Cars, Airplanes, and the New Middle Class Oil-Age Wars and Weapons Electrifying! The Human Superorganism 5. Overpowered: The Fine Mess We've Gotten Ourselves Into Climate Chaos and Its Remedies Disappearance of Wild Nature Resource Depletion Soaring Economic Inequality Pollution Overpopulation and Overconsumption Global Debt Bubble Weapons of Mass Destruction 6. Optimum Power: Sustaining Our Power Over Time Involuntary Power Limits: Death, Extinction, Collapse Self-Limitation in Natural and Human-Engineered Systems Taboos, Souls, and Enlightenment Taxes, Regulations, Activism, and Rationing: Power Restraint in the Modern World Games, Disarmament, and Degrowth Denial, Optimism Bias, and Irrational Exuberance 7. The Future of Power: Learning to Live Happily Within Limits All Against All Trade-Offs Along the Path of Self-Restraint The Fate of the Superorganism Questioning Technology Learning to Live with Less Energy and Stuff Lessening Inequality Population: Lowering It and Keeping It Steady Fighting Power with Power Long-Term Power Through Beauty, Spirituality, and Happiness Notes Index About the Author About New Society Publishers

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Book SynopsisThis complex, compelling tale is told with simplicity and grace'' - The TimesA story of courage and adventure, set against the backdrop of the race to exploit Africa by the colonial powers.For millennia the location of the Nile River''s headwaters was shrouded in mystery. In the mid-19th century, Richard Burton and John Hanning Speke were sent by the Royal Geographical Society to claim the prize for Britain. Burton spoke twenty-nine languages, and was a decorated soldier. He was also mercurial, subtle, and an iconoclastic atheist. Speke was a young aristocrat and Army officer determined to make his mark, Burton's opposite in temperament and beliefs.From the start the two men clashed. They would endure tremendous hardship, illness, and constant setbacks. Two years in, deep in the African interior, Burton became too sick to press on, but Speke did, and claimed he found the source in a great lake that he christened Lake Victoria. When they returned to England, the two became sworn enemies.Yet there was a third man on both expeditions, his name obscured by imperial annals, whose exploits were even more extraordinary. This was Sidi Mubarak Bombay, who was enslaved and shipped from his home village in East Africa to India. When the man who purchased him died, he made his way into the local Sultan's army, and eventually travelled back to Africa, where he used his resourcefulness, linguistic prowess and raw courage to forge a living as a guide. Without Bombay and men like him, who led, carried, and protected the expedition, neither Englishman would have come close to the headwaters of the Nile, or perhaps even survived.

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Book SynopsisAn essential resource for ceramicists, studios or schools looking for inspiration to reclaim, reuse and recycle in their studio or work. Producing work that is not only beautifully designed and produced, but is also environmentally friendly and socially responsible is now more important than ever. In Sustainable Ceramics, pioneer Robert Harrison draws on more than four decades of making, and a wealth of experience shared by other artists to present you with a range of practical possibilities. This book presents you all the factors to consider when going 'green', from fuels and alternative firing technology to energy-saving methods, sustainable ways to collect and use clay itself, and ways to deal with or recycle your waste materials and save water. He suggests simple and achievable methods by which to reduce the carbon footprint of your ceramic art, and draws on interviews and examples by practitioners who reclaim, reuse and recycle in their studio or work.Trade ReviewArtists are increasingly interested in producing work which is not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly. The book covers over four decades of making and a wealth of experiences. -- Billy Byles * Aylesford School of Ceramics *Robert Harrison, sets out to convince the reader to do something positive. And he does it well ... I found the book fascinating. I would encourage all potters to read it. Either buy the book or borrow mine; I've read my copy and I daren't let it end up as landfill. -- Frank Hamer * Shards *Table of ContentsForeword by Janet Mansfield Introduction 1. Your carbon footprint 2. Sustainable ceramic practices for the maker 3. Ceramic artists working sustainably 4. Working with industry 5. Sustainable endeavours: education and networks 6. Journal leaders: personal approaches Practical advice – top tips Websites Bibliography Index

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Book Synopsis'A remarkable and deeply moving book' Henry Marsh, bestselling author of Do No Harm'A breathtaking, extraordinary work of non-fiction' Times Literary SupplementOn 11 March 2011, a massive earthquake sent a 120-foot-high tsunami smashing into the coast of north-east Japan. It was Japan's greatest single loss of life since the atomic bombing of Nagasaki.Richard Lloyd Parry, an award-winning foreign correspondent, lived through the earthquake in Tokyo, and spent six years reporting from the epicentre. Learning about the lives of those affected through their own personal accounts, he paints a rich picture of the impact the tsunami had on day to day Japanese life.Heart-breaking and hopeful, this intimate account of a tragedy unveils the unique nuances of Japanese culture, the tsunami's impact on Japan's stunning and majestic landscape and the psychology of its people.Ghosts of the Tsunami is an award-winning classic of literary non-fiction. It tells the moving, evocative story of how a nation faced an unimaginable catastrophe and rebuilt to look towards the future.**WINNER OF THE RATHBONES FOLIO PRIZE**Trade ReviewThe definitive book on the quake which killed more than 15,000 people and led to the Fukushima nuclear disaster. * Mail Online *Every time I think of it, I’m filled with wonderment... This book is a future classic of disaster journalism, up there with John Hersey’s Hiroshima. -- Rachel Cooke * Observer *Mr Lloyd Parry offers a voice to the grieving who, too often, found it hard to be heard. It is a thoughtful lesson to all societies whose first reaction in the face of adversity is to shut down inquiry and cover up the facts. You will not read a finer work of narrative non-fiction this year. * Economist *A stunning book from the man who has a strong claim to be the most compelling non-fiction writer in the world. -- Johann HariA book of absolute, harrowing truth and beauty. I'd give up four of my novels to have written this book. -- Jim Crace * Guardian *A breathtaking, extraordinary work… Parry writes with great fluency and timing, like a novelist alternating cadences and withholding information from the reader so as to create moments of tension and surprise. And there is something of the folklorist in the way he discusses the tradition of ghost stories in places such as Tohoku and Sendai. -- Gavin Jacobson * Times Literary Supplement *Compassionate and piercing... giving it the character of a finely conceived crime fiction or a psychological drama… Tragic, engrossing. -- Eri Hotta * Guardian *Parry, a journalist and long-time Tokyo resident, is able to draw something meaningful, even lovely, from the well of misery… Overall, the strength of the book lies in its stories, its observations and its language… The language is daring throughout. -- David Pilling * Financial Times *Ghosts of the Tsunami is alert to the social and political ramifications and transfixed by the spectral quality of the post-disaster landscape… These twin streams – one universal, the other intensely particular – come together in the mystery that is at this book’s core… Some of his most fascinating chapters take in the disaster’s psychological aftermath… It is full of stories of human endeavor, of individual and collective triumph over well-nigh insuperable odds… As well as being full of ghosts, Lloyd Parry’s A-grade reportage is also full of metaphors. -- D. J. Taylor * The Times *A remarkable and deeply moving book – describing in plain and perfect prose the almost unimaginable devastation and tragedy of the Japanese tsunami. -- Henry MarshGhosts of the Tsunami is enthralling and deeply moving, fully conveying and involving the reader in the sheer horror and tragedy of all that happened yet with such beauty, honesty and sincerity. Richard Lloyd Parry has returned the trust and done justice to the victims and their families a hundredfold. -- David PeaceWhen Lloyd Parry wrote Ghosts of the Tsunami, he was seeking “the gift of imagination… the paradoxical capacity to feel tragedy on the surface of the skin, in all its cruelty and dread, but also to understand it… with calm and penetration”. It is to his great credit that, once he attained this gift, he so generously shared it with us here. -- Yo Zushi * New Statesman *Ghosts of the Tsunami is a deeply moving and powerfully intimate work about the enduring strength of community and family in the face of unimaginable destruction and loss. This is a haunting, beautiful, and unforgettable book. -- Héctor Tobar, author of DEEP DOWN DARKA well-researched, polyphonic narrative of what happened on the day 133-ft waves swept in — and how the story continued long after the news cameras left… Lloyd Parry offers a rare glimpse into the history and culture of a region where entire villages were wiped out… By gaining the trust of those on the ground, the author has created an unrivalled account of how Tohoku grieved, and is still grieving. -- Emily Finch * Prospect *The character sketches are colourful; the chapters end on cliffhangers. Lloyd Parry’s prose is fast-flowing, occasionally stopped short by a blunt sentence… His treatment evokes John Hersey’s Hiroshima, published a year after the dropping of the bomb… He has done a fine job of fashioning a focused story, and some powerful arguments, from the tsunami’s wreckage. But his book gives vivid expression to what should be obvious: there is nothing neat or aesthetic about a natural disaster like this. -- Alex Dudok de Wit * Daily Telegraph *Extraordinary… Lloyd Parry writes movingly about the emotional chasm that now separates the parents who saved their children and those who assumed the authorities knew best… God isn’t very popular in the West these days, so it’s striking to read a book written in civilized, elegant prose that doesn’t rip apart Buddhist priests and Christian pastors at the first mention. -- John Sweeney * Literary Review *Ghosts of the Tsunami is a brilliant chronicle of one of the modern world's worst disasters, but it's also a necessary act of witness. The stories Parry tells are wrenching, and he refuses to mitigate the enormity of the tsunami with false optimism or saccharine feel-good anecdotes. Above all, it's a beautiful meditation on grief. * NPR *Parry studs the story with gems of language and detail... The result is a spellbinding book that is well worth contemplating in an era marked by climate change and natural disaster. -- Kathleen Rooney * Chicago Tribune *Parry spoke to the parents and friends of the children and staff involved, and his relating of first-hand accounts of the tragedy is almost unbearable to read at times… Not an easy read, but a rewarding one all the same. -- Doug Johnstone * Big Issue *The human cost of the deadly Japanese tsunami is examined in this powerful and absorbing work that exposes the emotional trauma the mountain of water left in its wake… Parry, who has worked in Japan for years, documents with great closeness and insight the impact of such staggering loss on people living in a society not noted for its emotionality. -- David Wilcock * Belfast Telegraph Morning *His central narrative swirls around the black hole formed in those 45 critical minutes between quake and tsunami. He knows that its awful gravity may pull some readers in, and push others away. -- Stephen Phelan * Herald Scotland *Natural disaster is given a jarringly human constitution in Ghosts Of The Tsunami… This is "literary non-fiction", full of gilded language and sensations as Parry recounts the scene he was met with when he travelled up the coast of Japan to where the giant waves had hit. A transcendental reading experience. -- Hilary A White * Irish Independent *Ghosts of the Tsunami deals mainly with the aftermath of the tragedy – days, weeks and months in which parents continued doggedly looking in the mud for their children, knowing full well that there was no chance of finding them alive. Their testimonies are unbearably moving. -- Craig Brown * Mail on Sunday *This is a haunting account of Okawa’s loss and it is almost unbearably sad. Parry rarely speaks of his own reactions but he is the most compassionate of writers, allowing the voices of those he encounters to be heard… Exceptional. * Lady *Powerful and absorbing. * i *A sobering and compelling narrative of calamity. * Kirkus *This is a piercing look at the communities ravaged by the tsunami -- Eri Hotta * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"[Japan] explores not just the animals of the country’s islands, but also the regions and the best seasons to see them – perfect for armchair travelling."---Penny Sarchet, New Scientist Wild Wild Life"Gloriously illustrated, deeply informed introduction by naturalist Mark Brazil."---Andrew Robinson, Nature"No matter what experience on Japan you have there is much to be learnt from this book. It is a wonderful compendium of Japan’s natural history that neatly complements the author’s other writings, and is an essential and enjoyable addition to the documentation of Japan’s wildlife."---Dave Brassington, Birdwatch"This book is excellent, deeply interesting and a real achievement to condense such a large and complex topic into something so accessible. If, like me you have ever dreamt of going to Japan this book is a great place to start planning an adventure of your own, even if you never get any further than your armchair."---David Swales, British Naturalists Association"For anyone even marginally interested in the wildlife of Japan this work will fill in the gaps in your knowledge, and expand on what you already know - all brought to you by one of Asia's foremost wildlife authorities."---David Gascoigne, Travels with Birds"Beautifully illustrated . . . a rich introduction to the diverse habitats contained within Japan, and the animals which live there."---Ian Rapley, Asian Review of Books"Nobody has done more in recent years than Mark Brazil to raise the profile of Japan’s wildlife and this latest book packs in a lot of information . . . . [This book] adds information about the ecology of the country that helps the visitor to make sense of how everything fits together."---Keith Betton, IBIS Book Reviews.

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Book SynopsisThe wind powers everything a sailor does and this book will help you to understand it. As a result you will be more prepared for your race, able to anticipate changes in the wind better and know what to do when they come. The first edition of this book was published in 1986, and it has been the go-to wind book for dinghy champions ever since. This new-look fourth edition is fully updated for modern forecasting and analyses a revised set of popular racing venues around the world: unveiling what to expect from the weather at over 25 regatta locations, it will get you ahead of the competition and powering up the leaderboard.Trade Review“Wind Strategy remains the ‘go to’ book for racing sailors seeking to improve their understanding of the vagaries of the wind.” (Yachting Life) “It covers everything a dinghy sailor could possibly need to know about how wind and weather can affect you on the race course, and the knowledge here can help put you one step ahead of the competition before the start gun has even fired.” (The Final Beat) "A good read for sailors of all abilities with plenty of illustrations to guide the club sailor and regular racers." (Gybe Magazine) “This is very well illustrated and explains the wind brilliantly.” (UK Laser Association)Table of ContentsAbout The Authors; Foreword; Chapter 1: The Wind-Wise Sailor; Chapter 2: The Sailor’s Wind; Chapter 3: Wind Facts: Coasts, Lakes & Islands; Chapter 4: Wind Facts: Wind Bands, Water Temperature & The Tide; Chapter 5: Wind Facts: Gusts & Lulls; Chapter 6: Wind Facts: Southern Hemisphere; Chapter 7: The Sea Breeze; Chapter 8: Sea Breeze with Gradient Wind; Chapter 9: Afternoon Winds: Gradient Wind Onshore; Chapter 10: Lakes, Mountains, Valleys & Peninsulas; Chapter 11: As the Sun Goes Down; Chapter 12: Afternoon & Evening Winds: Southern Hemisphere; Chapter 13: Gravity Waves, Billows & Surges; Chapter 14: The Message of The Clouds; Chapter 15: Light Airs; Chapter 16: Obstacles in The Wind; Chapter 17: Water Currents; Chapter 18: Waves; Chapter 19: Dangerous Waves; Chapter 20: At The Regatta; Chapter 21: Which Sails?; Chapter 22: Popular Racing Venues; Summary Sheets.

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Book SynopsisProgress requires the conquest of nature. Or does it? This new account overturns conventional interpretations of Marx and in the process outlines a more rational approach to the current environmental crisis. Marx, it is often assumed, cared only about industrial growth and the development of economic forces. John Bellamy Foster examines Marx's neglected writings on capitalist agriculture and soil ecology, philosophical naturalism, and evolutionary theory. He shows that Marx, known as a powerful critic of capitalist society, was also deeply concerned with the changing human relationship to nature. Marx's Ecology covers many other thinkers, including Epicurus, Charles Darwin, Thomas Malthus, Ludwig Feuerbach, P. J. Proudhon, and William Paley. By reconstructing a materialist conception of nature and society, Marx's Ecology challenges the spiritualism prevalent in the modern Green movement, pointing toward a method that offers more lasting and sustainable solutions to the ecological crisis.Table of ContentsThe materialist conception of nature; the really earthly question; parsonian naturalism; the materialist conception of history; the metabolism of natue and society; coevolution and sustainability.

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Book SynopsisLONGLISTED FOR THE 2024 WAINWRIGHT PRIZE FOR CONSERVATION WRITING A BBC RADIO 4 BOOK OF THE WEEK ONE OF THE NEW YORKER'S BEST BOOKS OF 2023  INCLUDED IN THE GUARDIAN'S BEST IDEAS BOOKS OF 2023 ‘A gripping read that will anger as much as it fascinates’ Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall‘An incredible journey into the world of rubbish, full of fascinating characters and mind-bending facts’ Oliver Bullough, author of Moneyland ‘Urgent, probing and endlessly interesting’ Cal Flyn, author of Islands of Abandonment'There are stories in all our discarded things: who made them, what they meant to a person before they were thrown away. In the end, it all ends up in the same place – the endless ingenuity of humanity in one filthy, fascinating mass.'   When we throw things ‘awayTrade Review‘The book comes alive in its descriptions of people and places ... Franklin-Wallis writes stylishly about ugly things ... interesting and sobering ... His book should prompt serious discussion in boardrooms and parliaments’ * The Economist *‘Wasteland is so captivating. It is an unflinching account of the best and worst of us, related through the things we choose to discard. Franklin-Wallis has travelled extensively to tell the story of waste and the result is fascinating’ * Literary Review *‘In Wasteland, he tackles all elements of the effects of waste, from cities in India and Ghana to the banks of the river Thames in London. His eye for detail, honed over years of non-fiction writing, turns the abstract into the immediate – and the alarming . . . Part of what makes Wasteland so powerful is that it doesn’t chide. Its strongest parts are when Franklin-Wallis walks with those contributing to, or affected by, the failures, injustices and complexities of dealing with waste . . . Wasteland isn’t a comfortable read, but it’s an important one’ * New Scientist *‘Do not adjust your magazine, but this really is a positive review… In other hands this book could have been worthy but unreadable. It’s full of arresting figures… Franklin-Wallis, the features editor at GQ, grounds his narrative in first hand reporting… Oh, and one more thing. We all need to buy less stuff’ * Private Eye *‘His access to the places that bury, sort, burn and treat the world’s waste is impressive, considering that hardly anyone in the industry was willing to talk to him . . . The statistics will fill you with despair . . . Luckily we have some heroes . . . Much of Franklin-Wallis’s efforts go to puncturing common western assumptions . . . the author renders a public service as important as a recycling truck or a functioning toilet’ * Spectator *‘A first-hand reported account of a sprawling global environmental conundrum… Franklin-Wallis makes an important case for tighter, smarter regulation in a world where individual “litterbugs” are blamed for a packaging waste problem caused by companies that have successfully dodged full responsibility’ * Financial Times *‘Oliver Franklin-Wallis’s Wasteland shows how our rubbish creates an environmental and human catastrophe… Wasteland makes clear, in reality it is those on the margins of society the world over who are left to deal with the mountains of trash humanity adds to in every second of every day… well written and few readers are likely to be left unaffected by its findings’ * New Statesman *‘Waste is a serious problem and also a curiously fascinating one. In this brilliant book, Franklin-Wallis goes into it up to his neck – so we don’t have to! The result is a gripping read that will anger as much as it fascinates. There’s lots we can all do to help, but he’s right to conclude that it’s government and business who really have to step up, and clean up’ -- Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall‘This is an incredible journey into the world of rubbish, full of fascinating characters and mind-bending facts. My relationship with garbage is never going to be the same’ -- Oliver Bullough, author of Moneyland and Butler to the World‘An urgent, probing and endlessly interesting investigation into our staggering wastefulness and the environmental crisis this is creating right under our noses. In Wasteland, Oliver Franklin-Walls offers us a behind the scenes guide to the processing plants, rubbish tips and refuse mountains that lurk in our back yards; the thundering machinery and skilled workers who strive tirelessly to relieve us of the spoils of our own profligacy. As he does so, he turns up rare treasures and unexpected beauties amid the junk and the mess. Tirelessly reported, it is a book both horrifying in its implications and gleefully hair-raising in the way it is told’ -- Cal Flyn, author of Islands of Abandonment‘Shocking but essential reading’ -- Tim Spector, author of Food for Life‘Superb. Oliver Franklin-Wallis’ deep dive into our wasteful ways and dirty histories turns up a story that gleams with insight and promise. An urgent and vividly told exploration of the underside of modern life, Wasteland also reveals what a better future could look like. You'll never see trash the same way again’ -- David Farrier, author of Footprints'Just as everything we consume comes from somewhere on earth, so too everything we produce must go somewhere on earth – even if we don't want to think about it. This book compels us to. A fascinating, deeply researched and hugely important exposé of what happens to the stuff we no longer want, and the social and environmental cost of dealing with it. Revelatory, thoughtful and honest about our complex relationship with waste.' -- Gaia Vince, author of Nomad CenturyWith his investigative chops and contagious curiosity, Oliver Franklin-Wallis has cracked wide a dozen hidden, jaw-dropping worlds . . . Yet despite its grim revelations, the book offers hope. For we can’t begin to make things right until we understand the nuanced realities of what is wrong. Wasteland is compelling, smart, fair, often funny, always interesting, and just very important. Truly, it’s the most impressive nonfiction I’ve read in quite some time’ -- Mary Roach, author of Stiff and Animal Vegetable Criminal‘Wise, honest and unsparing, Wasteland will open your eyes to the reality of our throwaway society’ -- Henry Mance, author of How to Love Animals‘[An] eye-opening investigation into the global waste crisis and recycling industry’ -- Caroline Sanderson * Editor’s Choice, Bookseller *'Sometimes it seems as if our main role as humans is to enjoy shiny things for a little while until they become discarded things. This is a fascinating and comprehensive tour of the second half of that equation – the tossed-out usually gets a thousandth the attention of the not-yet-purchased, but Oliver Franklin-Wallis does his best to redress that balance, in a book that wills you see the world quite differently than you did before' -- Bill McKibben, author The End of Nature‘[A] scary reflection of our overconsumption and failure to deal with its impact. . . completely engrossing. . . it is the wake-up call we need to do better’ * Euronews *'A travelogue around dumps, scrapyards, disposal and recycling facilities, from giant machines that shred TVs and other electronic devices to vast landfill sites in India: the all-too-solid hinterlands of our obsession with buying and throwing away so much stuff' * Guardian, Books of the Year *

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Book SynopsisA beautiful book and the perfect Christmas present.' Jamie OliverMore than just a compilation of gorgeous recipes: it's a moving collection of precious food memories that testify to the enduring impact of what we eat.' Nigella LawsonThese Delicious Things is a collection of nostalgic food memories and recipes from more than 100 of the UK's top chefs and food writers. Published to support children living in food poverty, it is proof that when people give a piece of themselves for the benefit of others, incredible things can happen.This is both a cookbook and a story book filled with childhood memories and scrumptious feasts. And it's a book that wants to make a difference by supporting Magic Breakfast, a charity whose aim is to feed children living with food insecurity so they're not too hungry to learn.With recipes for every occasion and time of day, These Delicious Things provides elevated versions of well known favourites that will impress even the toughest (and smallest) of criticTrade Review‘As well as backing this excellent cause, there’s the pleasure of recipes and food memories from Jamie, Raymond Blanc, Stanley Tucci and more.' Delicious Magazine ‘This new charity cookbook is a beautifully written ode to food memories and recipes from more than 100 of the UK’s top chefs and food writers.’ – ESQUIRE magazine ‘Angela Hartnett, Nigella Lawson, Yotam Ottolenghi, Stanley Tucci, Andi Oliver and Lucas Hollweg are just a few of the stellar line-up of 100 chefs who’ve contributed recipes to this nostalgia-filled compendium.’ – Waitrose Magazine 'One of those rare charity compilations, in aid of the magnificent Magic Breakfast, that is impossible to put down. By Jane Hodson and Lucas Hollweg, with photographs from Clerkenwell Boy, it’s filled with the food memories (and recipes) of everyone from Jamie Oliver and Raymond Blanc to Asma Khan, Andi Oliver and Stanley Tucci, plus many more. One to really tuck into.' – Tom Parker Bowles, MailOnline 'These Delicious Things is filled with a collection of nostalgic food memories and recipes from more than 100 of the UK’s top chefs and food writers to hit the comfort food spot.’ – Stylist Magazine Jamie Oliver Cook Book Club Pick for December 2023

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Book Synopsis''The future of all life on this earth depends on our willingness to take action now'' David AttenboroughThe official companion to the ground-breaking Netflix original series.With a foreword by Sir David Attenborough, breathtakingly beautiful still photography, specially commissioned maps and graphics, and compelling text expanding on the remarkable TV stories and giving the reader a depth of information that is impossible on screen, this companion book presents a whole new view of the place we call home.Featuring some of the world''s rarest creatures and previously unseen parts of the Earth from deep oceans to remote forests to ice caps, Our Planet takes nature-lovers deep into the science of our natural world.Revealing the most amazing sights on Earth in unprecedented ways, alongside stories of the ways humans are affecting the world''s ecosystems, from the wildebeest migrations in Africa to thTrade ReviewAstonishing book...full of beautiful photographs * Radio Times *Featuring some of the world's rarest creatures and previously unseen parts of the Earth - Our Planet travels deep into the science of our natural world. Revealing the most amazing sights, alongside stories of the way humans are affecting the world's ecosystems - this book is part of a vital global conversation about protecting and preserving the planet. * Compass Magazine *A treat on your coffee table and a fine companion to any binge watch of the series * Wanderlust *Breathtaking photographs * Radio Times *Revealing the most amazing sights on Earth, alongside stories of the way humans are affecting the world's ecosystems, this book places itself at the forefront of a global conversation as we work together to protect and preserve the planet. * Catholic Times *

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Book SynopsisDescribes and explains Schauberger's insights in an accessible way, including his discoveries about sick water, ailing forests, climate change and renewable energy.Trade Review'The book seeks to explain its concepts in simple language, assisted throughout by clear and well-annotated illustrations. Thought-provoking.'-- Jeff Sanderson, Light, Summer 2004'Hidden Nature is a comprehensive breakdown of Viktor Schauberger's stunning ideas and observations. Alick Bartholomew strips away the complexity of Callum Coats' book Living Energies, in order better to understand Schauberger's main themes. It will certainly transform your views on water. The graphics are the clearest I've seen in any book on Schauberger. I highly recommend it if you want to learn about Schauberger's natural science.'-- Amazon UK review'Hidden Nature gives a context for Schauberger's thinking and brings it into the framework of later understandings, such as Gaia theory and Lawrence Edwards' work. As one reads this very accessible book, one is left with a growing sense that his system is so simple, so sensible and rooted in reality, that one wonders why on earth more people don't know about it.'-- Jane Cobbald, Star and Furrow, Winter 2003'Alick Bartholomew is in a very good position to have written this introductory overview of Schauberger's work for the general reader. With its readable text and informative illustrations, this is an essential primer.'-- David Lorimer, Scientific and Medical Network Review, Spring 2004'A spacious and well-presented book with plenty of diagrams. The concepts are explained well. Fascinating and thought-provoking.'-- Reforesting Scotland, Spring 2004'The book's scope is very broad and it is intended to be more accessible to the lay reader than the technical publications on Schauberger. [...] It has always puzzled me that Jack and Jill went *up* the hill for their water. The "anomaly point", central to Schauberger's understanding of how true springs form, might be a clue.... Schauberger's ideas, ideals even, resonate strongly with the modern debate about sustainability.'-- New View, December 2003'This is a timely book on a profound subject ... Hidden Nature reveals a timeless wisdom requiring urgent attention ... Water may seem to you so ordinary, but this book will totally transform your perception of it. After reading Hidden Nature you will know that it is the most precious substance on the Earth.'-- Satish Kumar, Editor, Resurgence magazine'Alick Bartholomew tells how in 1950 Richard St Barbe Baker arranged for Schauberger's son, a trained physicist, to talk to a group of atomic physicists at Birmingham University. A few weeks later, Baker asked the scientists if they had held a postmortem on Schauberger's presentation. "Yes indeed," they admitted; they had decided that it was "unchallengable". "Then what are you going to do about it?" asked Baker. "Nothing," was their retort. "Why not?" "Because it would mean rewriting all the textbooks in the world." That, in my view, is reason enough to read this book.'-- Jane Cobbald, Star and Furrow, Winter 2003'Alick Bartholomew provides a fitting first glimpse [of Schauberger's insights and inventions] with Hidden Nature. If you've had enough of the mechanistic, materialistic worldview and are looking for an alternative approach that's based on a real appreciation of Nature's workings, this is the book for you.'-- Ruth Parnell, Nexus Magazine, February 2004'Schauberger was an untutored genius well ahead of his time. His remarkable insights and investigations into water and living energies challenge established scientific dogmas then and now. Alick Bartholomew has done an admirable job of making Schauberger's work accessible and relevant to our age without compromising its artistic integrity. Read it for pure inspiration and for concrete ideas on disciplines as diverse as bioenergetics, consciousness, earth science, hydrodynamics, thermodynamics, and many others yet to be named.'-- Dr Mae-Wan Ho, biologist, author, and editor of Science in SocietyTable of ContentsForeword by David BellamyIntroduction: Levitation and resistanceless movement; The non-conformist; Alternative worldviewPart One: An Alternative World-View1. Schauberger’s Vision: Water wizard; Log flumes; Water, source of life; Subtle energies; Motion is crucial; Temperature controls; Water, source of life; Evolution; Balance; Implosion; The visionary2. Different Kinds of Energy: Subtle energies; Viktor’s worldview; Why the mystery? Degrees of energy; Vortex, key to creative evolution; Energies as creative process; Spiritual science; Different dimensions; Changing octaves3. Attraction & Repulsion of Opposites: Sun as fertilizing entity; Polarities; Opposites working towards balance; Gravity & levity4. Nature's Patterns & Shapes: Sound as Resonance; Resonance is about qualities; Plants have perception and memory; Cymatics; Patterns & shapes; Patterns in motion; Rhythms in solar system; Cosmic rhythms; The confrontation of two Geometric Systems; Sacred geometry; The Golden Mean; The magic of the egg form Part Two: How the World Works5. Energy Production: Inefficiency of modern technology; Entropy & ectropy; Scientific ’laws’; Energy pollution; The choice before us; Energy defines quality; The creative energy vortex6. Motion, Key to Balance: We use the wrong form of motion; The ‘original’ motion; Types of motion7. Atmosphere & Electricity: Earth’s atmosphere; Electricity; Terrestrial bio-condenser; Earth as accumulator of energy; Electrism and magnetism; Storms, water vapour and climatePart Three: Water – the Source of Life8. The Nature of Water: Memory of water; Creation of water; Anomaly point of water; Qualities of water; How the river protects itself; Temperature gradient. & nutrient supply9. The Hydrological Cycle: Full & half hydrological cycles; Temperature gradients & nutrient supply10. Formation of Springs: The veneration of springs; Seepage springs; True springs; How spring water rises; Energy from deep ocean11. How Rivers Flow: Stages of a river; Temperature & movement of water; Positive temperature gradients; Dams; Flow guides; Energy bodies; Formation of vortices; Vortices as the source of creative energy; Formation of bends; Conventional river engineering; Hydro-electric power12. Supplying Water: Dwindling water supplies; Water for profit; Modern water treatments – chlorine – fluoride; Transmuting water’s memory; Tubular water movement; Water main materials; The wooden water main; Stuttgart tests; Circulation of bloodPart Four: The Life of Trees13. The Role of the Forest: Evolution of the forest; Destruction of the forests; A moral tale; Tropical rainforests; Forestry; Monoculture; Biodiversity; Energy in the forest14. Trees: Trees in the biosphere; Form of a tree; Trees and humans; Trees and colour; Their physical nature; Tree classification; Trees’ response to light; Light & shade demanding trees; Light-induced growth; Man-made depredations; Importance of photosynthesis; Creation of water; Maturation of water15. Tree Metabolism: Sap movement; Temperature gradients; Trees as bio-condensers; Root systems. Soil and nutritionPart Five: Working with Nature16. Soil Fertility and Cultivation: Crisis in intensive farming; Ploughing methods; Two kinds of electromagnetism; Golden plough; Bio plough; Aligning furrows; Grazing & grass cutting; Artificial fertilizers17. Organic Cultivation: Biological agriculture; Soil mineralization; Organic farming, Biodynamic farming; Subtle energies in Nature; Cold Fire; Fertilizing agenciesPart Six: The Energy Revolution18. Harnessing Implosion Power: An American consortium; A new kind of aircraft? The beginnings of implosion research; Schauberger’s Free Energy Search; Flying saucers; Biological vacuum; The repulsator; The implosion motor; The repulsine & flying saucer19. Viktor Schauberger & Society: The human legacy; Implementing Schauberger’s researchAcknowledgments, Resources, Bibliography, Index

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Book SynopsisOur cities are changing. Global real estate is now a $217 trillion dollar industry, 36 times the value of all the gold ever mined. It makes up 60 percent of the world's assets, and the most powerful person in the world - the president of the United States - made his name as a landlord and real estate developer. As Samuel Stein makes clear in this tightly argued book, its through seemingly innocuous profession of city planners that we can best understand the transformations underway. Planners provide a window into the practical dynamics of urban change: the way the state uses and is used by organized capital, and the power of landlords and developers at every level of government. But crucially, planners also possess some of the powers we must leverage if we ever wish to reclaim our cities from real estate capital.Trade ReviewStein's lucid explanation for how we got to where we're at shines urgent light on the origins and development of what he incisively calls "the Real Estate State." Capital City places gentrification in a structurally extensive and intensive urban geography of dispossession. All who struggle for the right to the city should read this book, and realize afresh how capitalism saving capitalism from capitalism must provoke our political imagination. -- Ruth Wilson Gilmore, author of Golden GulagCapital City casts a cold and brilliant light on the underlying political dynamics of global cities and rightly concludes that real estate and finance are in charge. This sobering book has to be part of our toolkit as we try to find the moorings for a powerful democratic pushback in local political struggles. -- Frances Fox Piven, co-author of Poor People’s MovementsWant to know why the rent's so high? Samuel Stein meticulously documents and analyzes the rise of the rip-off "real estate state," the instruments of its power, the invidious "plansplaining" arguments of its defenders, and, above all, its accelerating ethnic and class cleansing of American cities, gentrification-frenzied New York in the van. With the sleaziest of real estate developers now the rent-subsidized tenant of the White House bent on engorging his crony kin and kith by doubling down on the corrupt system of "geobribe" giveaways, backroom deals, and public theft that underwrites their ravages, this superbly succinct and incisive book couldn't be more timely or urgent. -- Michael Sorkin, author of All Over the MapSamuel Stein has written a book for those tired of merely describing gentrification and displacement, who are looking for explanations as well as new programs for action to do more. Capital City is a place that puts it all together, the theory and the practices of urban transformation, with a timely and urgent appeal. This is a lively user's guide to thechanging landscape of the American city. -- Peter Marcuse, co-author of In Defense of Housing[Capital City] alternates a panoptic view with one that looks more closely, from the ground up, at what reckless development does to lives and livelihoods...Explicit in Stein's narrative is the idea that a different, more democratic kind of planning might lead us to more democratic kinds of cities. -- Nikil Saval * The New Yorker *Samuel Stein's Capital City: Gentrification and the Real Estate State is a radical view into the heart of the processes [urban planners] oversee -- Andrea Gibbons * New Labor Forum *Capital City deserves attention from urban historians for its nuanced analysis of neoliberal urban policy and specific measures that generate inequality and may be also used in service of justice. This book will be a useful tool for a broad swath of people seeking a greater understanding of the urgency of this political moment which grows with every demolition. -- Amanda Boston * The Metropole *Vital and devastating ... [Capital City is] unabashed in its advocacy of a more equitable distribution of land and housing. ... A powerful companion to studies of the global rise of informal cities such as Mike Davis' Planet of Slums, the racist history of housing in Richard Rothstein's The Color of Law, [and] the horrid effects of losing one's home in Matthew Desmond's Evicted. -- Joshua Barnett * New York Labor History Association *

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Book SynopsisWinner of the 2012 Boardman Tasker Prize for Mountain Literature 'I was aware that I was cold - beyond cold. I was a lump of meat left for too long in a freezer, a body trapped beneath the ice, sinking down into the dark. I was freezing to death.' In this brilliant sequel to his award-winning debut Psychovertical, mountaineering stand-up Andy Kirkpatrick has achieved his life's ambition to become one of the world's leading climbers. Pushing himself to new extremes, he embarks on his toughest climbs yet - on big walls in the Alps and Patagonia - in the depths of winter. Kirkpatrick has more success, but the savagery and danger of these encounters comes at huge personal cost. Questioning his commitment to his chosen craft, Kirkpatrick is torn between family life and the dangerous path he has chosen. Written with his trademark wit and honesty, Cold Wars is a gripping account of modern adventure.Trade Review"The book is often as varied as it is textured, and with every break I looked forward to returning ... a book that is both hilarious and haunting." (Alison Osius, Rock & Ice Magazine). "This is Andy Kirkpatrick at his best." (Tom Richardson, Climb Magazine). "The rarest of things, a mountaineering book that really matters." (John Horscroft, Climber Magazine). "Kirkpatrick's wry sarcasm, his deft character sketches of his climbing partners, and the often ridiculous situations of the game of big-wall climbing lead to many laugh-out-loud moments. The portrayal of Kirkpatrick's developing insight into his motivation and his growing realisation of the importance of life outside climbing make this a climbing autobiography on a par with Steve House's Beyond the Mountain, only with more jokes about poo and Johnny Depp." (John Chivall, TGO Magazine). "Cold Wars is a funny, poignant read and I enjoyed it very much." (Alastair Humphreys, www.alastairhumphreys.com). "Brilliantly written, painfully thoughtful and yet still an incredibly easy and gripping read. Human and brilliant at the same time." (Jon Doran, OUTDOORSmagic.com). "A good second book from one of the the UK's best climbing showmen which will hopefully open the door for a third, as this man surely has more mountain stories to tell." (Jack Geldard, UKClimbing.com). "It's laugh-out-loud funny at times, and amazingly honest at others. Read it - but then you would have done anyway." (Rosie Fuller, Adventure Travel Magazine). "The book weaves an impressive line between man and mountaineer ... and manages to break out of an over-worked genre by dint of the author's honesty and vulnerability." (John Appleby, Footless Crow). "A superbly written insight into the life of a world class performer torn by internal battles, never satisfied because to stand still is to go backwards and infuriatingly not recognising that he doesn't need to be be measured against anyone." Dave Mycroft, MyOutdoors.co.uk). "A book that is moving, powerful and hugely entertaining, often within a single chapter, Cold Wars joins Psychovertical as one of the new classics of mountaineering literature." (Nicola Underdown, rockclimbinguk.co.uk). "Cold Wars is a superb book. For those like me who don't climb, it is a fantastic insight into a specialised world with pithy comment on the difficulties faced by those who inhabit it. For those who climb big walls in winter, you may well be in it. Regardless of who you are, go and read it." (British Army Rumour Service)."A book which celebrates all that is best in mountaineering literature and the Boardman Tasker Award in particular." (Bernard Newman, Boardman Tasker Prize 2012). "The book is often as varied as it is textured, and with every break I looked forward to returning ... a book that is both hilarious and haunting." (Alison Osius, Rock & Ice Magazine). "This is Andy Kirkpatrick at his best." (Tom Richardson, Climb Magazine). "The rarest of things, a mountaineering book that really matters." (John Horscroft, Climber Magazine). "Kirkpatrick's wry sarcasm, his deft character sketches of his climbing partners, and the often ridiculous situations of the game of big-wall climbing lead to many laugh-out-loud moments. The portrayal of Kirkpatrick's developing insight into his motivation and his growing realisation of the importance of life outside climbing make this a climbing autobiography on a par with Steve House's Beyond the Mountain, only with more jokes about poo and Johnny Depp." (John Chivall, TGO Magazine). "Brilliantly written, painfully thoughtful and yet still an incredibly easy and gripping read. Human and brilliant at the same time." (Jon Doran, OUTDOORSmagic.com). "A good second book from one of the the UK's best climbing showmen which will hopefully open the door for a third, as this man surely has more mountain stories to tell." (Jack Geldard, UKClimbing.com). "It's laugh-out-loud funny at times, and amazingly honest at others. Read it - but then you would have done anyway." (Rosie Fuller, Adventure Travel Magazine). "Cold Wars is a funny, poignant read and I enjoyed it very much." (Alastair Humphreys, www.alastairhumphreys.com). "A hugely entertaining and moving book, which will appeal to mountaineers and non-mountaineers alike, and no doubt will become one of the modern classics." (Ken Applegate, Scottish Mountaineer). "The book weaves an impressive line between man and mountaineer ... and manages to break out of an over-worked genre by dint of the author's honesty and vulnerability." (John Appleby, To Hatch A Crow). "A superbly written insight into the life of a world class performer torn by internal battles, never satisfied because to stand still is to go backwards and infuriatingly not recognising that he doesn't need to be be measured against anyone." (Dave Mycroft, MyOutdoors.co.uk). "A book that is moving, powerful and hugely entertaining, often within a single chapter, Cold Wars joins Psychovertical as one of the new classics of mountaineering literature." (Nicola Underdown, rockclimbinguk.co.uk). "Cold Wars is a superb book. For those like me who don't climb, it is a fantastic insight into a specialised world with pithy comment on the difficulties faced by those who inhabit it. For those who climb big walls in winter, you may well be in it. Regardless of who you are, go and read it." (British Army Rumour Service).Table of ContentsAcknowledgements Preface Prologue Yosemite One Dru Two Lafaille Three Black Dog Four Fitz Roy Five Mermoz Six Park Seven Fear Eight Xmas Nine Troll Ten Hard Eleven Troll II Twelve Breathing Thirteen Lesueur Fourteen Sheep Fifteen Diamond Sixteen Post Seventeen Charlie Eighteen Grounded Nineteen Magic Climbing 101 Glossary

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Book SynopsisThe emergence of modern sciences in the seventeenth century profoundly renewed our understanding of Nature. For the last three centuries new ideas of Nature have been continuously developed by theology, politics, economics, and science, especially the sciences of the material world.Trade ReviewListed as one of Resurgence & Ecologist's 2017 Book of the Year"Facing Gaia stands as a toolbox for many disciplines. It harbours crucial insights: we are witnessing a catastrophe in which we are all implicated… Latour argues that it matters what each of us thinks and does. It will be written in clouds, spelt in stone, legible in water."Australian Book ReviewTable of ContentsContents Introduction First Lecture: On the Instability of the (Notion of) Nature A mutation of the relation to the world ¥ Four ways to be driven crazy by ecology ¥ The instability of the nature/culture relation ¥ The invocation of human nature ¥ The recourse to the �natural world� ¥ On a great service rendered by the pseudo-controversy over the climate ¥ �Go tell your masters that the scientists are on the warpath!� ¥ In which we seek to pass from �nature� to the world ¥ How to face up Second Lecture: How Not to (De-)Animate Nature Disturbing �truths� ¥ Describing in order to warn ¥ In which we concentrate on agency ¥ On the difficulty of distinguishing between humans and nonhumans ¥ �And yet it moves!� ¥ A new version of natural law ¥ On an unfortunate tendency to confuse cause and creation ¥ Toward a nature that would no longer be a religion? Third Lecture: Gaia, a (Finally Secular) Figure for Nature Galileo, Lovelock: Two symmetrical discoveries ¥ Gaia, an exceedingly treacherous mythical name for a scientific theory ¥ A parallel with Pasteur�s microbes ¥ Lovelock too makes micro-actors proliferate ¥ How to avoid the idea of a system? ¥ Organisms make their own environment, they do not adapt to it ¥ On a slight complication of Darwinism ¥ Space, an offspring of history Fourth Lecture: The Anthropocene and the Destruction of (the Image of) the Globe The Anthropocene: an innovation ¥ Mente et Malleo ¥ A debatable term for an uncertain epoch ¥ An ideal opportunity to disaggregate the figures of Man and Nature ¥ Sloterdijk or the theological origin of the image of the Sphere ¥ Confusion between Science and the Globe ¥ Tyrrell against Lovelock ¥ Feedback loops do not draw a Globe ¥ Finally, a different principle of composition ¥ Melancholia, or the end of the Globe Fifth Lecture: How to Convene the Various Peoples (of Nature)? Two Leviathans, two cosmologies ¥ How to avoid war between the gods? ¥ A perilous diplomatic project ¥ The impossible convocation of a �people of nature� ¥ How to give negotiation a chance? ¥ On the conflict between science and religion ¥ Uncertainty about the meaning of the word �end� ¥ Comparing collectives in combat ¥ Doing without any natural religion Sixth Lecture: How (Not) to Put an End to the End of Times? The fateful date of 1610 ¥ Stephen Toulmin and the scientific counter-revolution ¥ In search of the religious origin of �disinhibition� ¥ The strange project of achieving Paradise on Earth ¥ Eric Voegelin and the avatars of Gnosticism ¥ On an apocalyptic origin of climate skepticism ¥ From the religious to the terrestrial by way of the secular ¥ A �people of Gaia�? ¥ How to respond when accused of producing �apocalyptic discourse� Seventh Lecture: The States (of Nature) between War and Peace The �Great Enclosure� of Caspar David Friedrich ¥ The end of the State of Nature ¥ On the proper dosage of Carl Schmitt ¥ �We seek to understand the normative order of the earth� ¥ on the difference between war and police work ¥ How to turn around and face Gaia? ¥ Human versus Earthbound ¥ Learning to identify the struggling territories Eighth Lecture: How to Govern Struggling (Natural) Territories? In the Theater of Negotiations, Les Amandiers, May 2015 ¥ Learning to meet without a higher arbiter ¥ Extension of the Conference of the Parties to Nonhumans ¥ Multiplication of the parties involved ¥ Mapping the critical zones ¥ Rediscovering the meaning of the State ¥ Laudato Si� ¥ Finally, facing Gaia ¥ �Earth, earth!� Works Cited

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Book SynopsisA fresh take on social class from the experts behind the BBC''s ''Great British Class Survey''.Why does social class matter more than ever in Britain today?How has the meaning of class changed?What does this mean for social mobility and inequality?In this book Mike Savage and the team of sociologists responsible for the Great British Class Survey look beyond the labels to explore how and why our society is changing and what this means for the people who find themselves in the margins as well as in the centre.Their new conceptualization of class is based on the distribution of three kinds of capital - economic (inequalities in income and wealth), social (the different kinds of people we know) and cultural (the ways in which our leisure and cultural preferences are exclusive) - and provides incontrovertible evidence that class is as powerful and relevant today as it''s ever been.Trade ReviewThis endlessly fascinating study... is indispensable if you want to understand modern Britain -- Rod Liddle * Sunday Times *A fascinating read, going deep into the interplay between wealth, culture and society, and making the strong case that traditional class divisions don't really help us to understand these forces any more . . . anybody in the UK discussing class henceforth will need to get this down of the shelf -- Hugo Rifkind * Times *Convincing and fascinating . . . this book marshals impressive evidence to show how inequality is increasing. -- Robert Colvile * Telegraph *There's something for everybody here . . . it will start many conversations * Evening Standard *

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Book SynopsisJeffrey D. Sachs presents a compelling and practical framework to address the seemingly intractable worldwide problems of persistent extreme poverty, environmental degradation, and political-economic injustice: sustainable development. Sachs explains how modern societies can develop economically, equitably, and sustainably.Trade ReviewJeff Sachs's admirable book explains what sustainable development means, why it matters, and our history in relation to our environment. It shows how the pattern of growth we have followed has placed intense strains on our planet and generated severe risks to our lives and livelihoods. Above all, it explains clearly where we can go and how to get there. It describes a potential future of great attraction in terms of wellbeing, community and prosperity, properly understood. It should, and I hope it will, strengthen both the understanding of the great choices we face and the resolve to act. It is a splendid achievement. -- Lord Nicholas Stern, Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment This terrific book stands out for its breadth, clarity, mastery of detail, honest discussion of complex matters, and its author's practical experience and good sense. It is actually ten terrific books under one cover because its accounts of economics, history, health, development, education, gender issues, food, climate change and biological diversity are among the best available. If you want to understand the modern world, and if you have room on your shelf for only one book, this is your book. -- Jared Diamond, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Guns, Germs, and Steel There are very few authors that can so effectively rally the masses around an important cause-one that in this case concerns our collective future. There are still too few leaders with knowledge about global sustainable development challenges to affect the scalable changes that are needed. Professor Sachs's book is a comprehensive summary of complex issues, but it breaks them down and makes them digestible and understandable while making the imperative clear. It will clearly contribute significantly in closing the gap between science and policy, and hopefully serve as a catalyst for action. -- Hans Vestberg, CEO, Ericsson An important, comprehensive and remarkably accessible book-a standout in a sea ofjargon-laden titles that fail to explain and vivify this enormously complex topic Kirkus Reviews (starred review) Sweeping, enlightening, affecting, and invaluable, The Age of Sustainable Development should be available to everyone and consulted repeatedly. Booklist (starred review) Clear straightforward prose and a wealth of statistics... Sachs balances alarming forecasts with signs of progress. Publishers Weekly It is truly gratifying that an economist as distinguished as Jeffrey Sachs has authored The Age of Sustainable Development. His vast knowledge in the field and deep insights on various sectors of economic activity make him uniquely qualified to provide a view of the subject. Given the fact that almost a quartercentury has gone by since the Rio Summit of 1992, it is time for an authoritative volume such as the one Professor Sachs has authored for the benefit of global society. -- Dr. Rajendra K. Pachauri, director-general, TERI; former chairman, IPCC Comprehensive and crystal clear-what we need to make sustainable development a reality, not a dream. -- James E. Hansen, director, Earth Institute Program in Climate Science, Awareness, and Solutions The Age of Sustainable Development is both sobering and inspiring: sobering because it presents in great detail the unprecedented challenges facing mankind; inspiring because it assures us that we can meet those challenges, if only we summon the will to act. -- Kerry Kennedy, president, RFK Center for Justice and Human Rights It is, in my view, the best, most comprehensive and most articulate exposition of sustainable development ever written... I would make this book compulsory reading for all politicians and business leaders. -- David Griggs Nature Sachs has probably produced the best book to date on how to manage the planet for 10 billion people. -- Fred Pearce New Scientist A comprehensive introduction to the field of sustainable development by one of its leading scholars, advocates, and practitioners... Recommended. Library Journal In a book of incredible breadth, Sachs delivers a sobering account of the impact of human activity upon the balance of life on Earth... Highly recommended. Choice An inspiring and enlightening read. Africa Report a perceptive, analytical, and hopeful book about the future...This landmark in economic publications presents a brilliant examination of major worldwide threats to the planet and puts forward ways to balance economic development and environmental sustainability to overcome those threats...It is a magnum opus; the chief source of information for any person interested in understanding what sustainable development is all about. -- Bill Schwab Missourian A thoughtful and comprehensive resource on this crucial topic. Civil Engineering A clear and cogent nontechnical survey of the world's major challenges beyond the preservation of peace and security. -- Richard N. Cooper Foreign Affairs Sachs's book is written for a popular audience and could be used as a complementary text for courses in environmental or development economics or in public health classes or environmental studies classes. Its breadth of insights and coverage is staggering and students and general readers will find new ideas on every page of the book. -- Matthew E. Kahn Journal of Economic LiteratureTable of ContentsForeword, by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon of the United Nations Preface Acknowledgments 1. Introduction to Sustainable Development 2. An Unequal World 3. A Brief History of Economic Development 4. Why Some Countries Developed While Others Stayed Poor 5. Ending Extreme Poverty 6. Planetary Boundaries 7. Social Inclusion 8. Education for All 9. Health for All 10. Food Security 11. Resilient Cities 12. Climate Change 13. Saving Biodiversity and Protecting Ecosystem Services 14. Sustainable Development Goals Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisA gazetteer tracing the origin and meaning of more than 17,000 place-names throughout Britain, this A-Z is a treasury of information and fascinating facts. It is both an ideal guide for anybody exploring the British Isles and an authoritative resource for researchers and students interested in the study of place-names.Trade ReviewThis is a book so meticulously and scruplously compiled that it deserves not only a salutation, then, but scrutiny. And everyone who lives in this country and is curious about it should have it on a shelf, ready to take with them before going for a long, curious walk. * Nicholas Lezard, The Guardian *Just the (almost) pocket-size reference manual you need to find out the true meaning of your home town or village. * Suffolk & Norfolk Life *

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Book Synopsis Showcasing cutting-edge underwater photography from the world’s leading marine and nature photographers, The Life & Love of the Sea is a breathtaking visual tour of the ocean, from its coasts and beaches to the wildlife beneath its surface. With Lewis Blackwell, the author of The Life & Loves of Trees and The Life & Loves of the Forest, anyone can celebrate and explore the world’s oceans. Here you’ll share the experience of land meeting sea and the spectacular power of the ocean with a stunning collection of wave photography, and you will dive down to have a close-up look at many of the ocean’s most fascinating and beautiful inhabitants. Blackwell presents a wide-ranging variety of incredible images showcasing the ocean in all its power and diversity: Humpback whales Manta rays Clownfish Penguins Octopi Dramatic coastlines

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Book SynopsisMorton argues that the chief stumbling block to environmental thinking is the image of nature most writers promote: they propose a new world view, but their very zeal to preserve the natural world leads them away from the “nature” they revere. To have a properly ecological view, Morton suggests, we must relinquish, once and for all, the idea of nature.Trade ReviewRigorous and unsettling, Timothy Morton's book is a vividly realized critique of the political and ethical meanings of "place" and "space." Steeped in philosophical and literary history, Ecology without Nature is a profoundly convinced and convincing intervention, calling as it does for a more intellectually robust and politically supple environmentalism, one much better suited to the realities of twenty-first-century life. A more thoughtful reflection on the future of dwelling together in a vulnerable world would be hard to find. -- David L. Clark, Professor of English and Cultural Studies, McMaster UniversityMorton demonstrates that because most ecocriticism assumes nature/environment as a concept, most ecocritics perpetuate the assumptions of the literature that they purport to critique. He argues that nature is an arbitrary rhetorical concept whose modern origins can be traced to Romantics writing during the Industrial Revolution--essentially, that ecocriticism fetishizes "nature." He contends that a "really deep ecology" would let go of the idea of nature because it marks the difference between "us" and "it." Drawing on writers from Adorno to Zizek, and considering literature and art from the 18th century to the present, Morton offers a complex, important, and often playful argument that lays the groundwork for new directions in ecocriticism. -- G. D. MacDonald * Choice *We’re in the sh**. We have to face it and learn to live with it. That’s a basic idea in dark ecology, which Timothy Morton outlines in his book Ecology Without Nature...Dark ecology has a realistic take on the human state without resorting to false optimism or fatalistic tones of apocalypse. It also requires people to take control, and not lay down in the mud with blind faith of staying above the surface without ever drowning. When we realise our connection to the rest of the world, we understand that our actions reflect all life on the planet...Dark ecology has the potential to be the punk rock or experimental pop of ecological thinking. Or even the death metal, since it shares a goth sensibility that focuses on the dark. * Kasino A4 *Ecology Without Nature offers original and important critiques of ecocritical theory, in particular through its analysis of the legacy of Romanticism and the paradox of dualism that pervades much ecological writing. Its occasionally irreverent style and embrace of kitsch make it an enjoyable read, even when the associationist organization and technical terminology require the reader to slow down. However, this slowing down is exactly what Morton recommends for ecocritics as we enter the twenty-first century and the increasingly urgent demands of “this poisoned ground” where Morton calls us to stand. -- Janet Fiskio * Environmental Philosophy *Table of Contents* Introduction: Toward a Theory of Ecological Criticism * The Art of Environmental Language: "I Can't Believe It Isn't Nature!" * Romanticism and the Environmental Subject * Imagining Ecology without Nature * Notes * Index

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Book SynopsisMorris's intimate journals, written for a friend, unconsciously explore questions of travel, noting his reaction to the idea of leaving or arriving, to hurry and delay, what it means to dread a place you've never been to or to encounter the actuality of a long-held vision. Poet Lavinia Greenlaw draws out these questions as she follows in the footprints of Morris's prose, responding to its surfaces and undercurrents, extending its horizons. The result is a new and composite work, which brilliantly explores our conflicted reasons for not staying at home.Trade ReviewMorris's journals... are precious and unique because they are so simply and beautifully written with the informed sense of wonder of a deeply learned and sophisticated man. No one except Ruskin has ever put the case for beauty with such vehemence and clarity. Ian McQueen, The Guardian; At a time of endless half-truths and moral shilly-shallying, Morris's eccentric integrity shines out. Fiona MacCarthy; Greenlaw has brilliantly found a new form for writing about Morris, and for this we can only be grateful. Tony Pinkney in William Morris Unbound; The best book of travel written by an English poet is William Morris's Icelandic Journal. Geoffrey Grigson

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Book SynopsisA is for Atlas: Wonders of Maps and Mapping is a fascinating exploration of maps, charts, atlases and globes. Through a series of unique themes, this book reveals stories about objects produced centuries apart, showing the very different worlds in which maps were produced and consumed. From sumptuous globes designed for display to sketches drawn on scrap paper, from tales of buried treasure to cutting political satire and from imperial mapping to twenty-first-century projects that challenge contemporary border policies, each object in this lavishly illustrated volume is valuable for what it reveals about the hands that made it and the society that shaped it.

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Book SynopsisRanging across the 4.6 billion year history of the planet, geology is the subject that encompasses almost all that we see around us, in one way or another, and also much that we cannot see, beneath our feet, and on other planets. The fruits of geology provide most of the materials that give us shelter, and most of the energy that drives our modern lives. Within the study of geology lie some of the clues to the extraordinary impact our species is going to play out on the planet, in centuries and millennia to come.In this Very Short Introduction Jan Zalasiewicz gives a brief introduction to the fascinating field of geology. Describing how the science developed from its early beginnings, he looks at some of the key discoveries that have transformed it, before delving into its various subfields, such as sedimentology, tectonics, and stratigraphy. Analysing the geological foundations of the Earth, Zalasiewicz explains the interlocking studies of tectonics, geophysics, and igneous and metamorphic petrology and geochemistry; and describes how rocks are dated by radiometric dating. Considering the role and importance of geology in the finding and exploitation of resources (including fracking), he also discusses its place in environmental issues, such as foundations for urban structures and sites for landfill, and in tackling issues associated with climate change. Zalasiewicz concludes by discussing the exciting future and frontiers of the field, such as the exploration of the geology of Mars.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewIf you do not want to have to wade through heavy tomes and are equipped with only school-level knowledge of science, to gain a basic appreciation of this subject, then this 150 page short book could well be just what you need. * Jonathan Cowie, Science Fact & Science Fiction Concatenation *I have never read a better introduction to this vast, fascinating, and vital subject. It really is like seeing the world in a grain of sand. * Dr Ted Nield, Editor, Geoscientist magazine *How much do we know about our home? Jan Zalasiewicz's brief history of Earth is fun to read, yet strong on science too. It's a clear and accurate guide to our planet, and also addresses the challenge of caring for the environment. Just right for that flight or a long train trip! * Euan Nisbet, Foundation Prof. of Earth Science, Royal Holloway, Univ. of London *Table of Contents1: What is geology? 2: Geology: the early days 3: Modern breakthroughs and revolutions 4: Deep Earth geology 5: Earth surface geology 6: Geological fieldwork 7: Geology for resources 8: Geology for society and the environment 9: A very brief history of the Earth

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Book SynopsisNEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERFor the first time ever, an international coalition of leading researchers, scientists and policymakers has come together to offer a set of realistic and bold solutions to climate change. All of the techniques described here - some well-known, some you may have never heard of - are economically viable, and communities throughout the world are already enacting them. From revolutionizing how we produce and consume food to educating girls in lower-income countries, these are all solutions which, if deployed collectively on a global scale over the next thirty years, could not just slow the earth''s warming, but reach drawdown: the point when greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere peak and begin todecline. So what are we waiting for?Trade ReviewA bold plan to beat back climate change based on solutions already within our grasp * Outside Magazine *It will give you the best kind of hope, the kind that balances realism with radical vision . . . Drawdown stands out among the many recent climate books . . . This is a breakthrough book, and even its omissions are instructive. There really is a way forward, and these days, it's great to see this rather basic fact demonstrated with such astonishing focus and brio * The Nation *

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Book SynopsisMaps can tell much about a place that traditional histories fail to communicate. This lavishly illustrated book features 70 maps which have been selected for the particular stories they reveal about different political, commercial and social aspects of Scotland's largest city. The maps featured provide fascinating insights into topics such as: the development of the Clyde and its shipbuilding industry, the villages which were gradually subsumed into the city, how the city was policed, what lies underneath the city streets, the growth of Glasgow during the Industrial Revolution, the development of transport, the city's green spaces, the health of Glasgow, Glasgow as a tourist destination, the city as a wartime target, and its regeneration in the 1980s as the host city of one of the UK's five National Garden Festivals. Together, they present a fascinating insight into how Glasgow has changed and developed over the last 500 years, and will appeal to all those with an interest in Glasgow and Scottish history, as well as those interested in urban history, architectural history, town planning and the history of maps.Trade Review'The book's large format does justice to the often highly detailed and colourful maps, whose significance is brilliantly explained by the author' * Press and Journal *

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Book SynopsisMarrying the scientific and political sides of the climate crisis issue, this is a hopeful call to arms about how we can overcome climate change. This world is exhausted - capitalism extracts almost everything it can from the oceans, rivers, land and skies but also from so many of us, our lives, our worlds, even our minds. But exhaustion doesn't have to be a feeling of powerlessness and weariness in the face of a catastrophic climate change we feel we can do nothing to stop. Instead, it can be the foundation of a new climate politics fighting for a mass human and natural paradise still possible. In The Exhausted of the Earth, Ajay Singh Chaudhary addresses both the science and politics of climate collapse head on. He shows why there is no "market-based" solution to climate collapse, and that in order halt the destruction of the environment, we instead need a bitter political struggle between those attached to the power, wealth, and security of "business-as-usual" and all of us - those exhausted, in every sense of the word, by the status quo. Replacing Promethean, romantic and apocalyptic fairytales about climate change with a new story for every exhausted inhabitant of this exhausted world, The Exhausted of the Earth shows that overcoming climate collapse can be something far greater than mere survival - but only if it is grasped politically.Trade Review"This thoughtful and wide-ranging book is for those who wish to understand our predicament clearly, but especially for those looking for a glimmer of hope in our current darkness.""Written in a feisty and urgent style, The Exhausted of the Earth does the important work of not only showing that climate disruption and the Anthropocene are political, but also that they change what politics means. It shifts our attention in many, much needed ways.”“Walking us through the flimsy defences of green capitalism, slicing through the nonsense with rapier analysis, Chaudhary explains why any workable climate future will need to be grounded in decolonization. The argument is careful, logical, and is destined to be a classic, a touchstone in global climate struggles to come.”“The Exhausted of the Earth opens new horizons for urgent and immediate climate action. A must-read for our times.”"This wonderfully rich inquiry into late climate politics zooms in on exhaustion as the predicament of a world too long subjected to the ‘extractive circuit’ of capital. If there is any way to fight back, it is, as Singh Chaudhary so convincingly argues, with southern resources, assembled by everyone from Frantz Fanon to Imam Mahdi."

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Book SynopsisThe world’s wildlife is in crisis, and the next ten years are critical.The New Big 5 brings together more than 145 of the world’s greatest wildlife photographers, conservationists, and advocates in a mission to not only celebrate the natural beauty of the animal world, but to raise awareness of the crucial issues facing these magnificent creatures. Until recently, the Big Five referred to the five big-game animals that were most difficult for colonial hunters to shoot and kill. Wildlife photographer Graeme Green’s The New Big 5 Project set about to reclaim that gruesome, antiquated term by asking people around the world to vote on the five endangered animals they would most want to shoot—with a camera. More than fifty thousand people voted, and the New Big 5 list of Wildlife Photography was born. What are the New Big 5? Elephants Gorillas Tigers Lions Polar Bears With 226 stunning photos and informative essays from the world’s greatest wildlife advocates, this one-of-a-kind book inspires and raises awareness about the New Big 5, and our wildlife world. FEATURES MANY OTHER ENDANGERED SPECIES: An extensive chapter is devoted to endangered species, such as rhinos, cheetahs, lemurs, frogs, vultures, sharks, whales, and turtles. INCREDIBLE CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY: Majestic portraits, animals in their habitat, and examples of natural behavior from more than 145 renowned wildlife photographers, including Ami Vitale, Marsel van Oosten, Paul Nicklen, Steve McCurry, Karine Aigner, Brian Skerry, Lucas Bustamante, Beverly Joubert, Clement Kiragu, Thomas Mangelsen, Paul Hilton, Suzi Eszterhas, Sascha Fonseca, Cristina Mittermeier, Frans Lanting, Marina Cano, Gael R. Vande Weghe, Daisy Gilardini, Steve Winter, Qiang Zhang, Art Wolfe, Dhritiman Mukherjee, Will Burrard-Lucas, David Lloyd, Vicki Jauron, Sergey Gorshkov, and Thomas Vijayan. ENGAGING ESSAYS from leading conservationists, including Dr. Jane Goodall, Dr. Paula Kahumbu (Wildlife Direct), Dr. Tara Stoinski (CEO, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund), Krista Wright (Executive Director, Polar Bears International), Dr. Anish Andheria (CEO, Wildlife Conservation Trust), Dr. Moreangels Mbizah (Executive Director, Wildlife Conservation Action), Dominique Gonçalves (Manager, Elephant Ecology Project at Gorongosa National Park), and Wes Sechrest (CEO, Re:wild). “I hope the photos in this The New Big 5 book will lead people into the wonderful worlds of these iconic species - elephants, polar bears, gorillas, tigers and lions - and encourage them to explore the lives of so many other fascinating creatures, many of which are also endangered. Then, perhaps, other people will become involved in helping to create a world where wildlife can flourish for future generations to enjoy. I believe we have a window of time during which we can start to heal some of the harm we have inflicted on the natural world and slow down the heating of the planet. But only if we get together and take action now.” - Dr. Jane Goodall

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Longlisted for the Non-Obvious Book Awards""The subtitle says it all—Bjornerud and graphic artist Hagerman have compiled a wonderfully quirky collection of 'curiosities' that, collectively, detail the Earth’s transformation over eons and illustrate how our understanding of the planet has deepened through time. . . . A charming work, chock-full of information."---Laurie Selwyn, Library Journal, starred review"This is a garnet of a geology book: rooted in the planet, jewel-like and multi-coloured."---Andrew Robinson, Nature"[Geopedia] is a buffet of bite-size chapters perfect for dipping in and out of. . . . Its pocket-size format makes it perfect as a traveling companion, and its short chapters suit our frazzled attention spans, making it a fun alternative to night-time doomscrolling or heavier nonfiction. No matter if you’re a hard-core rockhound or a geological outsider, you’ll get something worthwhile from this little gem of a book."---Howard Lee, Ars Technica"A neat little book . . . . Take a dip into Geopedia for a bit of quirky fun." * Descent *"A fascinating, illuminating read. Organized alphabetically, the articles span the gamut of the sub-disciplines. Bjornerud explores both the etymology of the scientific terms and their scientific import. Readers who pick it up will learn a lot."---I. D. Sasowsky, Choice"perfect for casual reading .... Bjornerud...is a gifted writer" * Choice *"A cute little book of curiosities to dip in and out of but, like a box of rich chocolates, you probably will not want to finish it off all in one sitting."---Helen Coombs, Proceedings of the Open University Geological Society

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Book SynopsisCapturing the latest world statistics, this lavish edition of Philip's RGS Atlas of the World interprets global changes. Filled with clear, up-to-date data and captivating cartography and images, it gives a powerful view of Planet Earth and its many man-made complexities and natural treasures.

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Book Synopsis''My name is Mike and I am a map addict. There, it''s said''Mike Parker, presenter of Radio 4's On the Map, celebrates the richness of all things maps in this fantastic, critically-acclaimed read.On an average day, we will consult some form of map approximately a dozen times, often without even noticing: they are a cipher for every area of human existence. At a stroke, they convey precise information about topography, layout, history, politics and power. They are the unsung heroes of life: Map Addict sings their song.There are some fine, dry tomes out there about the history and development of cartography: this is not one of them. Mixing wry observation with hard fact and considerable research, Map Addict unearths the offbeat, the unusual and the downright pedantic in a celebration of all things maps. Combining history, travel, politics, memoir and oblique observation in a highly readable, and often very funny, style, Mike Parker confesses how his own impressive map collection was founded on a virulent teenage shoplifting habit, ponders how a good leftie can be so gung-ho about British cartographic imperialism and wages a one-man war against the moronic blandishments of the Sat Nav age.This new edition of the beloved classic has been fully revised and updated, with a new chapter on digital maps: the good, the bad, the Google Street View.Trade Review‘Mike Parker offers an exhilarating celebration of the humble map.’ Mail on Sunday ‘Excellent book,’ Daily Telegraph ‘This eclectic, funny and warm book should be on the shelves of everyone who has spent hours staring at a map.’ The Great Outdoors ‘a witty entreaty to leave the satnav in the car, and to head for the hills with the Ordnance Survey.’ BBC Country File magazine ‘a highly engaging and thoughtful, haphazard and personal, meander around maps and map-related arcane.’ Daily Mail ‘Parker makes his view of cartography both interesting and funny.’ Choice magazine ‘a funny, observant and genuinely interesting book.’ Adventure Travel ‘As you'd expect, given Mike's legendary wit, this is a book that's well worth a read.’ Midland Zone ‘In fact, it is a sense of mischievousness that makes this book quite charming.’ South Wales Argus ‘Nerdy it might seem, but the author's humour and historical knowledge of mad map makers, visionary breakthroughs and a deep love of exploration make this little book a treat.’ Royston Crow ‘Parker uses his own experience to add warmth and humour to a topic that may not, at first glance, appear enticing to the average reader. Accessible and entertaining.’ Country & Border Life ‘Parker proves a witty and engaging guide’ Guardian

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive and fully illustrated guide, this book is the definitive photographic reference guide for anyone interested in butterflies and moths found in Britain and Ireland.Every species that occurs regularly in Britain and Ireland is included, along with a section dealing with the rarest of the rare' extinct species or very rare immigrants. There follows the main section of the book, which covers our larger moths; every species that occurs regularly in Britain and Ireland is mentioned.Trade ReviewPraise for Paul Sterry: 'Wonderfully descriptive photographs'BBC Wildlife ‘Whether you are a keen amateur or someone with a passing interest, this book will satisfy your needs.’The Sea 'Packs in lots of well-chosen detail in compact form'British Wildlife Magazine ‘A bookshelf essential’The Field

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Book SynopsisOur understanding of the British Palaeolithic and Mesolithic has changed dramatically over the last three decades, and yet not since H. J. Fleure's A Natural History of Man in Britain (1951) has the New Naturalist Library included a volume focused on the study of early humans and their environment.In this long overdue new book, distinguished archaeologist Nick Ashton uncovers the most recent findings, following the remarkable survival and discovery of bones, stone tools and footprints which allow us to paint a picture of the first human visitors to this remote peninsula of north-west Europe.As part of the Ancient Human Occupation of Britain project and subsequent research, Ashton is involved in an unrivalled collaborative effort involving archaeologists, palaeontologists, and earth scientists at different British institutes, including the Natural History Museum and the British Museum. Using an interdisciplinary approach, the book explores the latest discoveries such as footprints at HaTrade Review‘[An] insightful study’ Nature ‘Early Humans packs in a huge amount of data, yet its research anecdotes, clear style and light humour make it accessible to a wide readership – ideal for students and researchers, but equally to be enjoyed by anyone curious about our extraordinary story on the edge of the early human world.’ British Archaeology ‘Well-designed … the images and illustrations are crisp andcolourful … the professional, the amateur and the dilettante alike will find something of interest from Early Humans, and will learn a great deal about Britain’s Ice Age past.’ Antiquity Praise for the New Naturalist series: ‘Taken either individually or as a whole, they are one of the proudest achievements of modern publishing’ The Sunday Times ‘The series is an amazing achievement’ The Times Literary Supplement ‘The books are glorious to own’ Independent

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Book SynopsisWhat can we really do about the climate emergency?The inconvenient truth is that we are causing the climate crisis with our carbon intensive lifestyles and that fixing or even just slowing it will affect all of us. But it can be done.InNet Zero, economist Dieter Helm addresses the action we all need to take to tackle the climate emergency: personal, local, national and global. Reducing our own carbon consumption is the first step. Helm argues that we, the ultimate polluters, should pay based on how much carbon the products we buy produce. We need a carbon price, and one that applies to everything and everywhere, from flights, to food and farming. The goal of net zero carbon emissions needs a rethink and this book sets out how to do it in a plan that could and would work. Do this and we make no further contribution to global warming, in a way that embraces sustainable economic growth and does not harm other aspects of the environment in the process. There is a solution and we must finTrade ReviewA Nature Book of the Week ‘You should read it’ Julian Glover, Evening Standard ‘The reasons I enjoyed this book are fivefold and I think they are reasons that many readers of this blog would enjoy it too. This book is very clearly written, on an important subject, by someone who knows their stuff, by someone who is a friend of the natural environment and, perhaps most importantly, it challenges my own starting point on this subject.’ Mark Avery ‘Dieter Helm is one of Britain's foremost experts on energy economics and he has written a terrific book on the next agenda item once the Covid emergency has passed. It is also an angry book … A fine overview of our climate policy failures and the options for doing better.’ Sunday Independent

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Book SynopsisThis is a tale of human obsession, one intrepid tuna, the dedicated fisherman who caught and set her free, the promises and limits of ocean science and the big truth of how our insatiable appetite for bluefin transformed a cottage industry into a global dilemma.In 2004, an enigmatic charter captain named Al Anderson caught and marked one Atlantic bluefin tuna off New England's coast with a plastic fish tag. Fourteen years later that fish dubbed Amelia for her ocean-spanning journeys died in a Mediterranean fish trap, sparking Karen Pinchin's riveting investigation into the marvels, struggles, and prehistoric legacy of this remarkable species.Over his fishing career Al marked more than sixty thousand fish with plastic tags, an obsession that made him nearly as many enemies as it did friends. His quest landed him in the crossfire of an ongoing fight between a booming bluefin tuna industry and desperate conservation efforts, a conflict that is once again heating up as overfishing and clTrade Review‘Karen Pinchin has written a moving, vivid, often heart-pounding narrative of the love, greed and dramas surrounding the lives and deaths of a fish upon whom human fortunes rise and fall–each an individual animal who surely loves his or her life as much as we love ours. Kings of Their Own Ocean is a moving and ultimately hopeful story, reminding us that if we are honest and we are wise, we still may save the denizens of our imperiled seas.’ Sy Montgomery, New York Times bestselling author of The Soul of an Octopus ‘Pinchin has written pathos, poetry and adrenaline into a story about one of the most famed and endangered sea creatures on the planet: the bluefin tuna. Not easy to get the science right while making the reporting riveting. But she did … Well worth the read.’ Ian Urbina, nationally bestselling author of The Outlaw Ocean ‘Awash in lyricism and anchored in science and history, Kings of Their Own Ocean submerges readers in the enthralling lives of Al Anderson and Amelia to explore the depths of the Atlantic bluefin tuna industry. Eloquent and sobering, Pinchin uncovers the tenuous fate of the bluefin, and deftly explains why the choices we make about the ocean matter.’ Gloria Dickie, author of Eight Bears and a National Geographic Explorer ‘In Kings of Their Own Ocean, Karen Pinchin has brought vigor and pathos to the human relationship with the inhabitants of our oceans—and what this complex relationship means for the future of the planet.’ Alicia Kennedy, author of No Meat Required ‘Strap in to your deck chairs and prepare to land the story of several lifetimes. In Kings of Their Own Ocean, a church launches a global seafood empire, researchers feud, the tuna leap, and most of all, fishermen and citizen scientists manage to save a vital species, armed only with their wits and a few plastic tags. Pinchin’s deep reporting and stunning prose ensure tuna will never taste the same.’ Lizzie Stark, author of Egg: A Dozen Ovatures

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Book SynopsisNavigate your way around Portsmouth with this detailed and easy-to-use A-Z Street Atlas. Printed in full-colour, paperback format, this atlas contains 54 pages of continuous street mapping.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book Synopsis** Winner of Royal Society Winton Prize for Science Books 2015 **We live in epoch-making times. The changes we humans have made in recent decades have altered our world beyond anything it has experienced in its 4.6 billion-year history. As a result, our planet is said to be crossing into the Anthropocene the Age of Humans. Gaia Vince decided to travel the world at the start of this new age to see what life is really like for the people on the frontline of the planet we've made. From artificial glaciers in the Himalayas to painted mountains in Peru, electrified reefs in the Maldives to garbage islands in the Caribbean, Gaia found people doing the most extraordinary things to solve the problems that we ourselves have created. These stories show what the Anthropocene means for all of us and they illuminate how we might engineer Earth for our future.Trade ReviewA heroic and important work -- Bryan Appleyard * Sunday Times *An excellent book... Vince writes with great freshness and vigour, and her stories are hard to stop reading * Daily Telegraph *It holds a mirror up to humanity and says: look what you have done to the world, the only world you will ever have... in every sense a good book, as well as a compelling read * Guardian *A masterpiece... a wondrous, remarkable, but heart-rending story * Ecologist *A masterpiece... a wondrous, remarkable, but heart-rending story * Ecologist *A story of optimism about how 10 billion people can in future live together and prosper... Fresh and unencumbered, Vince glides from ecology to economics, politics to philosophy, seeing it all through the people she meets * New Scientist *

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Book SynopsisTHE EXTRAORDINARY TALE OF THE FATHER OF MODERN GEOLOGYHidden behind velvet curtains above a stairway in a house in London''s Piccadilly is an enormous and beautiful hand-coloured map - the first geological map of anywhere in the world. Its maker was a farmer''s son named William Smith. Born in 1769 his life was troubled: he was imprisoned for debt, turned out of his home, his work was plagiarised, his wife went insane and the scientific establishment shunned him. It was not until 1829, when a Yorkshire aristocrat recognised his genius, that he was returned to London in triumph: The Map That Changed the World is his story.''For a geologist, this is a must read'' Amazon Reviewer''It serves to lift a genius from academic semi-obscurity and to award him the acknowledgement he undoubtedly deserves'' Amazon Reviewer''Never realised how seminal this map was'' Amazon Reviewer

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