Ice rivers /

This compelling autobiographical text by Wadham (glaciology, Univ. of Bristol) takes a uniquely personal approach to introducing readers to glaciers, glacier loss, and the importance of these "ice rivers" to the world. The narrative follows her as she travels to remote places in Europe and to Antarctica documenting the ecological roles that glaciers play in sustaining imperiled natural habitats as well as the world's agriculture and fishing industries. Wadham presents a thoughtful and intimate exploration of the important relationship glaciers have with the planet and, by extension, with humanity as people confront the damaging realities of global climate change. The book is an easy read, demonstrating Wadham's commitment to making her topic accessible for nonscientists. She accomplishes this through masterful employment of a reflective personal writing style, focusing on interactions with the people she meets during her travels, and by describing her research in a remarkably relatable way. She concludes with a helpful glossary and a selection of photographic illustrations for reference. A broad audience will welcome this book, but those interested in glaciers and climate change will receive it most enthusiastically. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readers. --Wil Weston, San Diego State University