Thinking Continental

November 1, 2017

Coeditors Lynch and Susan Naramore (coeditors, Artifacts and Illuminations), along with Drucilla Wall (The Geese at the Gates) and O. Alan Weltzien (Exceptional Mountains), have gathered a selection of essays, articles, and poetry around an intimate, regional knowledge of an area vs. a global view of environmental issues, and how local factors are connected to worldwide concerns. Is it better to have a deep understanding of a small region, or necessary for humans to understand how their community fits into a wider-world perspective? Pieces include an exploration of Maud Island, New Zealand, and its history; the relationship of Irish fishermen to the sea and the ever-present danger of drowning, with the author sharing the story of two fisherman who died at sea; and the rugged individualist cowboys and ranchers who are deeply entwined with the reality of global livestock prices over which they have no control. VERDICT This collection offers a variety of writings, from scholarly treatments to personal narratives to poetry, that share a local or planetary perspective. It will appeal to readers who enjoy nature and environmental works.--Sue O'Brien, Downers Grove, IL

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