The rather tortuous title conceals a very sound book about the
risks to human life posed by natural hazards such as earthquakes,
volcanoes and asteroid impacts. Zebrowski is a professor of physics
(at Pennsylvania State University) and he writes like one - earnest
by nature as well as by name! But this is almost an advantage when
dealing with such intrinsically sensational raw material. The end
result is a sober, compelling read that leaves you wondering just
how we have managed to survive this long. Dr Sue Bowler, editor of
Astronomy and Geographysics, the journal of the Royal Astronomical
Society, and who works at the School of Earth Sciences at Leeds
University adds: Over most of the Earth's surface, you would not
think that you are standing on anything restless; we think of rock
as solid and safe. But the opposite is true: Earth is remarkably
lively, as planets go, as demonstrated by earthquakes, volcanic
eruptions, tsunamis, floods and wayward weather. This book brings
the subject to life through eyewitness accounts and stories from
survivors, while focusing on the simple physical forces behind what
otherwise appears to be just mindless destruction. It is full of
useful facts, presented in a digestible and entertaining fashion.
(Kirkus UK)
From epidemics and earthquakes to tornados and tidal waves, the overwhelming power of nature never ceases to instill humankind with both terror and awe. As natural disasters continue to claim human lives and leave destruction in their wake, Perils of a Restless Planet examines our attempts to understand and anticipate such phenomena. Now available in paperback, this highly acclaimed book draws on actual events from ancient to present times. Coverage focuses on basic scientific inquiry, technological innovation and, ultimately, public policy to provide a lucid and riveting look at the natural events that have shaped our view of natural disasters. While shedding light on the elusive quality of nature's intermittent tantrums and the limits scientific study and laboratory replication impose on our understanding of its mercurial ways, the author extrapolates from the history of science to suggest how we may someday learn to warn and protect the vulnerable populations on our small, tempestuous planet. Compelling and informative, this book will find readers both in and outside of the scientific community.
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