"This is a rich slice of information about California's islands --and so complete that it includes the less-well-known Farallon and San Francisco Bay islands. The authors' well-chosen language, style, approach, organization, and illustrations combine to carry one along like a raft passenger on a fast-moving river. I highly recommend it."--Michael G. Barbour, author of "California's Changing Landscapes

"Rich in biological fact and historical anecdote, this book takes us into worlds that are made dynamic by geological, evolutionary, and human events. It shows how lively and eventful California's natural landscapes really are."--Peter Steinhart, author of "The Company of Wolves

"This book is the best source easily available to those interested in the California islands' natural history. It gives a good overview for beginning students and the uninitiated, and enough details for more advanced audiences."--Lyndal Laughrin, Director, Santa Cruz Island Reserve, University of California