In Loose on the Landscape, readers get to join Joel Everett Harding in an immersing journey through diverse environments and are provided deep insights into intriguing aspects of life. In Umatilla, we see the meticulous ecological assessments that reveal the potential impact of a gas pipeline. Also, Admiralty Island, Alaska, is depicted as a remote haven where nature thrives in abundance. Here, the book portrays a variety of fascinations, including brown bears, bald eagles, and a vibrant Tlingit Indian community. Joel’s stories provide a clear view of the complex challenges of our ever-changing world, where exploration and environmental stewardship intertwine seamlessly.

The author’s artistic language usage is a perfect match for the beautiful sceneries in his explorations of nature. Sometimes, he uses funny expressions to capture the reader’s heart, such as pointing out that he has “hugged trees without their consent… or any regard to their sexual preferences or pronouns.” Other times, he uses sensational, poetic words that capture his experience aptly and create happy mental images.

Since the book is filled with research findings and ample statistical figures, I had confidence in the information I was getting. Also, the author’s detailed description of his work as an ecologist offers intriguing lessons for people considering the career, as well as relatable thoughts for experienced ecologists. I was intrigued that he sometimes had to pack his bags quickly and travel around the country for days or weeks when his work called.

As a nature lover, Joel’s adventure-packed and highly poetic book helped me understand the value of nature better and the threat of environmental change in different ecosystems. Like Harding, I also felt sad that the Rio Sinú and the Emberá would lose their way of life when “the lake arrived and smothered their landscape.” Ultimately, I have been inspired by the book to make time for exploring the natural world. Meanwhile, I’ll bask in the beautiful images of nature that flashed through my mind while reading the highly descriptive book.

Pages: 441 | ASIN : B0CF2BM3Z4