Under a White Sky: The Nature of the Future

I love good science journalism and Elizabeth Kolbert gives us even more - evocative writing that raises big questions. Ponder the plight of the disappearing Mississippi delta and the engineering mega projects that are contemplated to stem the inexorable rising seas, sinking land, erosion and storms: the sad story of the dwindling pupfish that live only in one cave on the edge of Death Valley: and the maverick engineers who are researching ways to seed the stratosphere with calcium carbonate crystals. Will geo engineering become the only feasible way to protect humans from the effects of global heating? I read it from cover to cover over 2 days.

I bought this expecting the usual, "Sillicon Valley conquers all challenges" sort of read that papers over any doubt with relentless enthusiasm for technology driven progress. Like the blue light emitted by my devices, it kept me up all night. It forced me to question things. It made me bore my kids and friends with lengthy quotes and paraphrased passages. I dog eared a dozen pages I want to return to. I even took it with me to the loo. If you can put up with those sorts of side-effects, than this book is for you.

Book looks very interesting. Only downside was delivery as box was left in a damp place so all pages now wrinkled. Currently under a heavy weight to try and flatten. Not great as was a gift. Four stars is down to delivery rather than book.

Disappointing! No great insights here!

I use it for research

Kolbert writes for the New Yorker. She writes about environmental issues. The book is in three parts. The first is about rivers, the next about stopping biodiversity loss and the final part explores ways to solve the global cimate crisis using technology and geoengineering. The latter can take many forms. It is an engaging book by a Pulitzer Prize winner.