Tuesday, August 14, 2007

Field Notes from a Catastrophe

In this collection of writings by New Yorker staff writer Elizabeth Kolbert, readers will travel with her to unique and interesting places around the world to investigate the impact of climate change. Kolbert writes well and the material, although rather scientific at times, is still approachable for a general audience.

One of the most poignant moments for me was when Kolbert climbs back up to a ridge to take a second look at a glacier that will probably no longer be visible from the ridge in ten years (p. 66). I was surprised to get to the end, however, and never come across a mention of the impact a meat-based diet has on global warming, as discussed here and here. Still, I highly recommend this book, especially to those who are skeptical.