E. C. Pielou, a former professor of mathematical ecology and Killam Professor at Dalhousie University, has been a naturalist all her life. She is the author of many books, most recently Fresh Water, A Naturalist's Guide to the Arctic, and After the Ice Age, all published by the University of Chicago Press.
Scientist and naturalist Pielou brings a healthy curiosity and sense of depth to her investigation of fresh water in all its aspects. Her skills in researching and writing, exploring ideas and explaining them, are in evidence throughout the book. With abundant notes, references and black-and-white illustrations, this is a valuable primer on fresh water. After explaining the nature of water and the water cycle, including rivers, lakes, groundwater and ice, she goes on to expand on the problems that arise when humans come into contact with water: shipping by rivers, making dams and reservoirs, overusing or destroying wetlands. It is impossible to understate the fundamental importance of water and this book makes a basic contribution to our understanding. (Kirkus UK)