9.15.2007
The World Without Us
by Alan Weisman, 275 pgs, hardcover
Overall Grade: B+
Very interesting book - over a series of chapters it looks at different aspects of our planet under the premise that humans have for whatever reason have suddenly vanished from the Earth. How long would it take for our homes and cities to turn to ruin and disappear? How and what kinds of flora and fauna would reclaim the land? What would happen to our biggest constructions like the Great Wall of China and the Panama Canal? What would geochemically happen to our planet still left to deal with our byproducts and centuries of pollutants?
Some chapters I found enthralling. Some not so much, especially after reading other books about mass extinctions and global warming. And because it covers so many topics Weisman some times struggles to be informed on everything. Still recommended though.
Overall Grade: B+
Very interesting book - over a series of chapters it looks at different aspects of our planet under the premise that humans have for whatever reason have suddenly vanished from the Earth. How long would it take for our homes and cities to turn to ruin and disappear? How and what kinds of flora and fauna would reclaim the land? What would happen to our biggest constructions like the Great Wall of China and the Panama Canal? What would geochemically happen to our planet still left to deal with our byproducts and centuries of pollutants?
Some chapters I found enthralling. Some not so much, especially after reading other books about mass extinctions and global warming. And because it covers so many topics Weisman some times struggles to be informed on everything. Still recommended though.
Labels: genre: non-fiction, genre: science, media: book
