The SSL ‘Book of the Month’ feature highlights a book in our collection that has been chosen by one of our Subject Consultants. This may be a recent addition to our stock or an existing item that we would like to share with you.
March’s Book of the Month was selected by Andy Kernot, Subject Consultant for Geography, Social Policy & Intervention, Public Policy, and Internet Studies.
Taming the flood: rivers, wetlands and the centuries-old battle against flooding
Jeremy Purseglove
William Collins, 2015
It was chosen because it is regarded as a standard work on flood alleviation, nature conservation and river management.
Book Overview
In recent years the Somerset Levels suffered from the worst flooding in over twenty years, and more recently, flooding in Cumbria and other parts of Britain have reached new levels of severity. Taming the Flood analyses many of the conflicting demands made on rivers and wetlands, offering practical solutions which aim to protect, rather than destroy, these important ecological habitats.
Exploring the old arguments and new solutions raised over the last 400 years, this completely updated edition of the classic Taming the Flood reveals how harnessing nature, rather than attempting to repress it, is the only answer to the environmental disasters we are faced with today.
Reviews
Taming the Flood most deserves its status as a classic […] for its evocation of place […] the descriptions of wetlands are exquisitely written. This fine book calls for, and takes, a longer view.
The Sunday Times
Jeremy Purseglove has a gift that is increasingly rare in these days of scientific specialisation of joining practical wisdom about working with nature and the land to an imaginative appreciation of their place in our history and culture.
Richard Mabey
A most authoritative book which appears at a very appropriate time. It will give rise to new attitudes in an extremely important aspect of conservation, and new hope to those who are fighting for a more enlightened approach to wetlands.
Sir Peter Scott
How can I access it?
We have two lending copies of this book. One of our copies is currently located in our New Books Display Area (around the corner from our Issue Desk). Its shelfmark is GB1399.PUR 2015
What would your SSL Book of the Month be? Do you have a favourite book in our collection? If so, we would love to know what it is. Add a comment below or email us.