Forces of Nature

February 15, 2012
Ever since human beings formed tribal bonds and defended themselves against the elements, they've been angling to find the ideal geographical niches in which to survive and thrive. In this insightful history of man's relationship to his often harsh environment, Vann, a geography professor at the University of the Cumberlands, explores all the ways ancient and modern cultures have dealt with the forces of nature, from biblical floods to contemporary climate change. He begins with an overview of ancient, faith-based societies and their need to settle in divinely sanctified surroundings, then moves on to recount the challenges such communities as Galveston and San Francisco have faced under siege from hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes. The most eye-opening aspect of Vann's work, however, is his discussion of man's misguided overreliance on technology to avert catastrophe, especially in light of recent infrastructure failures during Hurricane Katrina and the 2011 Japanese tsunami. Readers interested in environmental matters, current and future climate-related crises, and disaster relief will find much valuable information here.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)