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John McPhee

The Control of Nature

John McPheeNonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1989

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Book Brief

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John McPhee

The Control of Nature

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1989
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Various • Contemporary

Publication Year

1989

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

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Super Short Summary

In The Control of Nature, John McPhee examines humanity's attempts to dominate natural forces, exploring the Army Corps of Engineers' efforts to control the Mississippi River in Louisiana, Icelanders' innovative response to a volcanic eruption in Heimaey, and Los Angeles' measures to manage deadly debris flows from nearby mountains. The book involves descriptions of natural disasters and their impacts on human lives.

Informative

Challenging

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.4

5,306 ratings

85%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

John McPhee's The Control of Nature masterfully examines humanity's attempts to control natural forces, blending compelling narrative with meticulous research. Readers praise its insightful portrayals of human ingenuity and hubris, though some find the technical details overwhelming. Overall, it offers a thought-provoking reflection on our relationship with nature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Control of Nature?

Fans of John McPhee's The Control of Nature typically enjoy detailed, narrative-driven explorations of complex ecological and geological issues. Similar to readers of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring or Jared Diamond’s Collapse, they appreciate well-researched, accessible science writing that engages with humanity's attempts to dominate and adapt to natural forces.

4.4

5,306 ratings

85%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Various • Contemporary

Publication Year

1989

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16-18 years

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