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Synopsis
This book surveys major environmental writings on a wide range of subjects, from the origin and evolution of plants and animals to such recent environmental philosophies as deep ecology and the Gaia hypothesis.
VOYA
At first glance, this interdisciplinary and encyclopedic guide to environmental literature looks useful. Once opened, useful is the least readers can say about it. Taking a nononsense approach to organizing the contents, Netzley begins with an alphabetical list of entries followed by a directory by category, both of which save time when looking up a specific entry. In a brief preface, the author outlines her criteria for inclusion, citing as her main qualification that "the writing must advance knowledge and change the reader's perception of the environment." She includes fulllength books, collections, and anthologies but not individual short pieces or poems. Netzley also excludes works that have not been translated into English or that are too obscure. The entries are well written, informative, and interesting, with plenty of see references and blackandwhite photographs to enhance the text. The range is remarkable, from early authors and writings to the very contemporary, from scholarly works to popular culture. Entries cross disciplines and literary genres and are packed with clearly presented and useful information. Furthermore, while the book is certainly a valuable reference tool, it is also a pleasure to browse. With a thorough bibliography and index, this reference might provide good reader's advisory information as well. This book is worth every penny of its cover price. Index. Photos. Biblio. 1999, ABCCLIO, Ages 12 to 18, 337p, $75. Reviewer: Donna Scanlon