THE FUTURE OF LIFE

This audiobook is wonderful. It opens with a love letter about the environment sent across time to Henry David Thoreau. Wilson then examines the state of the biosphere in meticulous detail, focusing on threats caused by pollution, population, and habitat destruction. At times overwhelming, this mood is lightened by Wilson's enthusiasm for nature, and by his ability to explain the moral, economic, biological, and psychological benefits of environmentalism. Later sections focus on action that can be taken to preserve wilderness and that include original and inspiring descriptions. Ed Begley, Jr., long known for his devotion to the environment, reads with both skill and knowledge, delivering technical vocabulary smoothly. G.T.B. © AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/JUL 02]