Chicago Botanic Garden

Education — Lenhardt Library

Current Books & Book Reviews

PHOTO: bookcover

Stephen J. Pyne.
Tending Fire: Coping with America's Wildland Fires.
Washington, D.C.: Island Press, 2004.
cloth, 238 p., ISBN 1–559–63565–7, $25.00.

As an authority on wildfire control, Stephen J. Pyne observes that there is an increasing recognition in the United States of the national importance of nature's wildland fires. He examines the causes for the escalating concern and the history of fire on open lands in America and elsewhere. He relates the differing opinions on fire control policy and practices in such natural disasters, both here and abroad. Based on his long experience in fighting fires, the author provides his thoughts on these options, stressing that many factors contribute to the creation of the fire scene, and people have little control over nature's directions. This thought-provoking book should be on the "must-read list" of all conservationists dedicated to preserving the planet.

— Marilyn K. Alaimo, garden writer and volunteer, Chicago Botanic Garden.