The Nature of Mediterranean Europe: An Ecological History

Book Description

Mediterranean Europe is often interpreted as a "Lost Eden"-once verdant and fertile but progressively degraded by the mismanagement of successive human civilizations. The authors of this engaging book challenge such a view. They find that the aridity and barrenness of the region today is not abnormal in terms of its historic and prehistoric past, and they identify the real threats to Mediterranean landscapes in the immediate future.

Customer Reviews:

no need for anything else.......2006-01-25

This is definitely the best and only book about the Mediterranean, erosion, and desertification. A must for everybody working in these fields. I have worked deeply into the discussed issues and find the richest source for my disseration in this book. In fact, I wouldn't need much more, and would the book be widely accepted, my work could be superfluous.

But as many colleauges did not yet want to be convinced by Grove and Rackham, let's add some evidence to support their conclusions.

Everybody else who does not have to recall previous conclusions: this is the simply best work about the Mediterranean environment; brillant, outstanding, will become a standard in the future.

Like "The Making of the Cretan Landscape" but much expanded.......2002-08-22

This book has much in common with Rackham & Moody's "The Making of the Cretan Landscape." Indeed, the information from the earlier book seems to form the foundation of the later one. The inclusion of examples from other parts of the Mediterranean region (especially Spain and Italy) expands the new book considerably, so it is certainly true to its title. The new book is more generously illustrated than the earlier one, with more color photographs of various types of vegetation, geological phenomena, ancient trees, etc...

A review of The Nature of Mediterranean Europe.......2001-06-26

The authors of this work combine insights from their own research in Crete with their colleagues works in other regions of Mediterranean Europe to provide an exceptional overview of the natural history of the region. Throughout the book the authors emphasize the pitfalls in using historical documentation in developing an understanding evolution of a specific environment, and emphasize the need for first hand observation. The presentation of the information is, therefore, a combination of summary of observations and an interesting lecture on interpretation of data and observation.

US readers may find the authors use of British vernacular and colloquiallisms in summarizing key points to be confusing. There are also occasions where the authors choose to compare methods of teaching in the US and Europe, wherein it is clear that the authors knowledge of US curricula is dated (e.g. the practice of teaching climax vegation theory is no longer in common practice in the US.) That aside, the information and analysis provided by the authors is insightful, well organized and above all challenges conventional stereotypes of the region.

I took this book on a two week tour of Mediterranean Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Turkey and quickly acquired a deeper understanding of; human history, the impact of anthropogenic disturbance, geomorphology, evolution of biota and climate.

I recommend this book to others studying or working in any of the natural resource fields, and especially to those who have not had a prior exposure to European ecology. Prior studies in ecology, botany, wildlife biology and the like will suffice to follow the refreshingly opinionated perspectives provided in this book. Unlike many other recent publications in ecology, this is not an anthology or synthesis of prior written works, but rather the analysis and opinions of two professionals with solid field experience. The authors leave the reader with ample grounds to agree, disagree or augment interpretation. Reading the book will make you want to join the authors on their next field trip.

Book Description

The Mediterranean is an outstanding 'hot-spot' of biological diversity. It is exceptional not only for this, but also because of its long history of interactions between its human inhabitants and the other fauna and flora of the region. The cradle of many civilizations, the Mediterranean region has been host to humans for thousands of years. This book is the first to synthesise our current understanding of the ecology, biology, and geology of Mediterranean animals, birds, and plants, and their habitats. The authors focus on the unique historical determinants and spatial patterns of Mediterranean biodiversity. In particular, the dramatic impacts of long-term human activities on the region's landscapes, flora, and fauna, are considered. This fascinating story will be of interest to researchers and students in ecology, biology, conservation, and geography, as well as to naturalists, and ecotourists visiting this popular holiday region.

Customer Reviews:

Impressive -- for intrepid lay readers and specialists.......2001-03-16

If you are one of those lay readers who is endlessly curious and not put off by rather intense discussions of "the adaptive value of sclerophylly in mediterranean ecosystems", this book may really be for you. Although I suspect most ecotourists, one target audience, will lack the stamina for it, the book really does a fine job of conveying the excitement of the region in relatively jargon-free prose. The formatting also does much to lure the more casual reader with its adept use of illustrations, boxes, and subheads to break up the text. I was delighted to discover just how much the authors eschewed simple description in favor of spotlighting what is truly intriguing about the Mediterranean ecosystem.

Some of the highlights for me include: the description of the drying up and reflooding of the Mediterranean during the Miocene; the unusual incidence of species endemism and its relationship not only to topographical diversity but to unusual geological substrates; the profiles of curious creatures such as the blind cave salamander and Etruscan shrew; the range of adaptations to diverse environments, such as the case of the Turkish hippo that crossed over to Cyprus 100,000 years ago and dwindled to the size of a pig; the fascinating coevolution of figs and wasps; and most of all, the manifold impact that humans have had upon the region for the past 10,000 years (chapter 8). The authors conclude with a look at what can be done to sustain the biodiversity of this fascinating region.

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The Nature of Mediterranean Europe - An Ecological History
AT Grove
Manufacturer: Yale University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000OSNYHE

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The Nature of Mediterranean Europe: An Ecological History
A.T. Grove
Manufacturer: Yale University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000OS0EBI

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In the path Muir, Audubon and Marjory Kinnan Rawlings

In the path Muir, Audubon and Marjory Kinnan Rawlings

In the path Muir, Audubon and Marjory Kinnan Rawlings

Outstanding

Don't Wander Through Florida Without It!

Scenic Driving Florida, 2nd (Scenic Driving Series)
Jan Annino Godown
Manufacturer: Falcon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

South Atlantic | South | Regions | United States | Travel | Subjects | Books
General | Travel | Subjects | Books
General | Automotive | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
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Best Backroads of Florida: The Heartland, Vol. 1

Visiting Small Town Florida

Best Backroads of Florida Coasts,Glades,and Groves Vol. 2

Best Backroads of Florida: Beaches and Hills (Best Backroads of Florida)

Scenic Driving North Carolina

ASIN: 0762734825

Book Description

This guide offers maps and directions for twenty-nine drives that cover the Sunshine State from Pensacola to Everglades National Park. Along the way encounter coastal marshes, shipwreck locales, fascinating museums, legendary swamps, and red clay hills.

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These roads-less-traveled include drives on ancient canopy roads, meanders onto preserved sea islands of towering dunes, visits along internationally famous coastal marshes, and routes deep into Native American territory. Along these paths families will find beach-combing, swimming, and hiking opportunities and history buffs can visit slave cabin ruins, Civil War and Seminole War sites, shipwreck locales, and fascinating museums. This guide provides comprehensive route descriptions, includi

Customer Reviews:

In the path Muir, Audubon and Marjory Kinnan Rawlings.......2002-03-27

Notes from the road by author Jan Godown: Since age 13 I have criss-crossed Florida with my family, who never saw a rural route they didn't want to explore. Today I bring my own family to the places where Rawlings and Audubon fished and hunted, and where Muir camped on his 1,000 mile trek to the sea. This guide is informed by my background as a past director of the Florida Folklore Society and Florida Historical Society. It is for shunpikers. It takes you to places where you can renew your spirit. Visit along these routes, write in your journal about a Florida worth protecting, and go forth to teach about it.

In the path Muir, Audubon and Marjory Kinnan Rawlings.......2002-03-27

Outstanding.......1999-04-12

This book offers all that you need to have a memorable vacation in Florida. There is no chance of getting lost and losing precious time as you drive through the Sunshine State. When I get my drivers license back, I will be able to use this book to the fullest

Don't Wander Through Florida Without It!.......1998-08-24

There are so many instant books about Florida churned out by writers who have merely zipped through the state en route to their next publication date that it is a pleasure to read one by someone actually familiar with the area. Jan Godown is a veteran Tallahassee journalist who has traveled these roads many times, and the reader--whether Floridian or tourist--is the beneficiary. She knows the charms, the history, and the things that threaten these places--not just how many miles they are from the plastic worlds of Central Florida. This book is a keeper on my library shelf--when it's not traveling in the front seat of my car!

Book Description

It's true. The Chilton gods seem to get great amusement out of putting Paris and me in the same setting, be it academically or socially. And they're alos bestowing their evil charms on my mom, who's been told by Headmaster Charleston that she needs to be more involved. So she's working on being a "Chilton mom," and I'm trying to be a "Puff." It hasn't been easy for either of us, especially with the distraction of my debutante ball, the arrival of Luke's nephew, Jess, and Tristan's return to school. What's Harvard?

Customer Reviews:

Gilmore Girls Classics.......2007-03-11

If you enjoy the show, you'll enjoy the books. Great for a collector...

Gilmore Girls the Other Dide OF Summer.......2006-01-26

Amy Sherman Palladino (the author of the novel Gilmore Girls The other side of summer) wraps you up in a novel about a mother daughter bond that is absolutely irresistible, funny and loving. Roarie, (the daughter) is starting the year at a new school called Chilton. Chilton is a private school that is considered strict and apparently looks great in your college application. Throughout the book you hear about the obstacles that Roarie faces at her at her new school. While Roarie studies and her mom learns how to become a "Chilton mom" they stick together and get through it.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a funny, loving story. I liked the way Roarie and Lorelei (her mother) interacted with each other and the fact that they were best friends. If you are expecting suspense and cliff hangers this is not the book for you. This is definitely not my favorite book but it is what I call "easy fun reading".

Perfect.......2005-07-07

Transaction was perfect, not a single thing wrong with it. The book was in excellent condition and the shipment was as speedy as it could be.

The Gilmore Girls are great!!.......2004-05-15

I LOVED this book! If you like the Gilmore Girls, then you would really like the book. These series of Gilmore Girls books are great and they relate to the episode. These books are very easy to read. I would strongly reccommend these books if you like Gilmore Girls!

A 13-year-old reader.......2003-04-01

This book was great. I like how it is written in the eyes of Rory, because you understand what was going through her head, while on the TV show you don't. I recommend buying this if you watch the show, and buying the whole four books in the series. Hopefully they will come out with more books!!

The Gilmore Girls : Other Side of Summer

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The Gilmore Girls : Other Side of Summer
Helen Pai
Manufacturer: HarperCollins Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000NGL9JW

Book Description

Volume 1: Development, Nutrition and Reproduction reviews the embryology, growth and metamorphosis of mosquitoes, the nutrition of larvae and adults, and egg production by the adults females. Physiological adaptations of larvae to their aquatic environment are also described. Volume 1 was published by Chapman and Hall in 1992.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent reference book.......2004-01-30

I recommend this book to anybody studying mosquito biology. Excellent!!!

Book Description

H-infinity engineering continues to establish itself as a discipline of applied mathematics. As such, this extensively illustrated monograph makes a significant application of H-infinity theory to electronic amplifier design, demonstrating how recent developments in H-infinity engineering equip amplifier designers with new tools and avenues for research.

The amplification of a weak, noisy, wideband signal is a canonical problem in electrical engineering. Given an amplifier, matching circuits must be designed to maximize gain, minimize noise, and guarantee stability. These competing design objectives constitute a multiobjective optimization problem. Because the matching circuits are H-infinity functions, amplifier design is really a problem in H-infinity multiobjective optimization.

To foster this blend of mathematics and engineering, the author begins with a careful review of required circuit theory for the applied mathematician. Similarly, a review of necessary H-infinity theory is provided for the electrical engineer having some background in control theory. The presentation emphasizes how to (1) compute the best possible performance available from any matching circuits; (2) benchmark existing matching solutions; and (3) generalize results to multiple amplifiers.

As the monograph develops, many research directions are pointed out for both disciplines. The physical meaning of a mathematical problem is made explicit for the mathematician, while circuit problems are presented in the H-infinity framework for the engineer. A final chapter organizes these research topics into a collection of open problems ranging from electrical engineering, numerical implementations, and generalizations to H-infinity theory.

Customer Reviews:

chewy but good for you.......2006-04-27

I have not finished the book yet. But I appreciate the approach taken by Dr. Allen. Although written with the engineer in mind, the book right away associates the filter formalisms to the rich body of knowlege of analytic functions. It aims to connect the analytic character of real filters to the rich and mature theory. Don't fret! It's not an intro monologue. Rather, it's concise and comprehensive. For the mathematically inclined wishing to learn filter theory, this book is for you. Or for the math-savy engineer wishing to add electrical engineering depth, this book is also for you. But for the uninitiated and/or weak hearted, this book may benefit you.

Book Description

As to her infantine bones, they were such as needed not to fail of straightness in the limbs, compactness in the body, smallness in hands and feet, and exceeding symmetry and comeliness throughout. Possibly between the two sides of the occipital profile there may have been an Incæan tendency to inequality; but if by any good fortune her impressible little cranium should escape the cradle-straps, the shapeliness that nature loves would soon appear. And this very fortune befell her.

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Customer Reviews:

Creole life in New Orleans, c.1800.......2006-09-05

Subtitled "A Story of Creole Life" and set in New Orleans during the early 1800s, the main thread of this novel revolves around a family feud between the Grandissimes and De Grapions. Various members of each family love and hate members of the other, which is eventually worked out to the satisfaction of some (Honore and Aurora) and the disappointment (even death) of others (Agricola and Palmyre). Cable's goal was to portray as realistic a picture of New Orleans and Creole society at the time when the city was still mainly French and Spanish (proud old Agricola hates the newly arriving Americans) as he could, and in that he mainly succeeds (even with many of the romantic elements that creep into the story, such as the developing love interest between Joseph Frowenfeld and Clotilde Nancanou). Beyond the feud, though, Cable depicts a society drenched in violence and racial hatred, and this is about as realistic as it could get. In one scene a black woman is lynched, then cut down just before she suffocates and told to run for her life; when she does she's shot dead. Bras Coupe, a one-time African prince who is now a slave, is an imposing character and worthy of respect. The book has a great deal of Creole and French dialect throughout, which may be problematic for some. A product of the deep South, Cable writes with vitriol against the slave system and the cruelty of white masters, but also reveals sympathy for a dying culture in New Orleans. Probably Cable's best work.

I had to read it & I ended up liking it !.......2003-05-10

To tell you the truth, I had to read this book for a class I took this year, which focused on literature from New Orleans. I don't mind reading books for classes; however, once I read the first couple of chapters of The Grandissimes, I thought that this would be one of those books that I would fall asleep reading. It seemed confusing and dealt with issues that did not really pertain to me, but I was pleasantly surprised at how interesting and complex the novel became.
Once the plot started to unfold, the novel grabbed my interest and I grew to respect and be amazed by it. I think that Cable did a great job tying major themes into this piece of literature, such as family pride, Creole lifestyle, Iron Virgins and Southern Belles, and the rigorous expectations of society. The Grandissimes takes place right after the Louisiana Purchase (1803), which allowed Cable to encompass ideas that many people are familiar with, such as a fear of change. The characters in the book where well developed and each seemed to carry their own message to the audience. For example, it is easy for everyone to relate to Joseph Frowenfeld, an American who finds himself wrapped up in the Creole society. This character was forced to be an outsider and the novel depicts how he dealt with the divisions of class and status.
The Grandissimes is titled after the Creole family from New Orleans who held most of the power and influence in society at the time. Throughout the book, the family must struggle through twists and turns of deceit and unexpected events, while still holding up their Old South charm. This book does a great job portraying how the family struggled to keep their position and power in society, in order to stay true to their roots.
If you are thinking of reading this book, I would suggest giving it a try. It may seem very complicated and choppy at first, but it will eventually tie together to make a great story. However, the only downfall to this book is that I could not truly like it until it was done and I reflected on it. It is one of those books that ends up surprising you!

Fantastic depiction of Creole Life.......2003-04-22

Cable's epic masterpiece details the adventures of a young protagonist stranded in New Orleans after his family succumbs to yellow fever. Through an acquaintance with a well-connected Doctor, he is able to enter a society that few people get to experience -- upper class New Orleans.

Mark Twain said that if you read the Grandissimes, you wouldn't have to go to New Orleans, because by reading it, you have already visited. Cable, with extensive detail, humor and intricate commentary on the Old South, has written a novel that stands the test of time, even though some of the characters (Agricola Fullister) do not.

Although the book is at points tenuous, the characters are vibrant and interesting enough to keep the plot moving along.

Of course, the most controversial aspect of The Grandissimes is the ending, which many feel is a let down after pages and pages of emotional build-up. Without giving anything away, the finals pages are somewhat of a disappointment. But the ending in its entirety is a well done.

Overall, the Grandissimes is a fascinating look at class and culture of the Creoles. It is recommended to anybody who enjoys reading New Orleans literature or literature in general.

"Do the Right Thing" - a century before the movie!.......2000-06-14

This farsighted inditement of Southern society is still powerful today.

Much of the story is seen through the eyes of Joseph Frowenfeld, a young Northerner of German background who has just moved to Louisiana with his family. He is soon left bereft by yellow fever, and with nothing to go back to is befriended by several kind souls, chief among them Honore Grandissime, the scion of a filthy rich Creole family.

He is quickly dismayed by the inequities of New Orleans society, a confession that prompts his new friend to pour out his heart to him. Honore, who knows what his family is, longs to reach out to his Mulatto half-brother and share the family business with him. He also wants to do right by the beautiful and virtuous Aurora Nancanou and her daughter Clotilde, who have been left destitute (by genteel standards, anyway) after Honore's father murdered Aurora's husband and swindled her. Honore would like to court Auroura, but honorable man that he is doesn't want to take advantage of her by performing his good deed barely before knocking on the door. In short, he wants an end to the moral decay of the old South.

He is not so deluded, however, as to think he can live happily ever after married to Auroura with his brother at his side. The Grandissime family will not give up it's ill-gotten wealth and prestige without a fight, and with few exceptions save his delightful nephew and protege Raoul - who is still too young to have a voice in family affairs - he is virtually alone.

Inspired by his new friend, Honore finally makes his lonely stand, unsure that his efforts will bear fruit - or even that they won't end with a Grandissime bullet in his back.

Honore must rank as one of the most likable of literary heroes - a good man who you can unreservedly sympathise with and root for. The point is not that he succeeds - we are left very much uncertain on that point - but that he has the strength to be the first to fight for what he knows in his heart is right. It's a struggle that many concientious white people are facing now long after this book was written.

Best Novel of New Orleans Before JK Toole.......2000-05-31

A native Louisianian, I didn't read this book for a long time, but was well rewarded when I finally got around to it. Cable caught a lot of hell for this book (along with OLD CREOLE DAYS) and it's easy to see why. Taking potshots at popular historical myths (and making arguments for racial equality) was never popular, especially in Louisiana right after Reconstruction when this book was written. While the writing and some of the melodrama are considerably dated (if exquisitely lush and beautiful), Cable makes excellent (if occasionally strident and jarring) points of his own while giving us a beautifully entertaining story of forbidden love and the clash of cultures, (themes more than resonant in Southern literature), and his characters, particularly the strong-willed Aurore, the family black sheep Honore de Grandissime, and the idealistic young Anglo (well, German, really) immigrant, Joseph Frowenfeld, stay in the soul's memory long after the book's finish. As an afterthought, the way Cable goes after Creole society has relevance today, as there is probably no other part of Louisiana history and culture as misunderstood and yet sentimentally applauded as its Cajun and Creole components. A great novel not only on its own terms, but also for the impact its had on perceptions of the South and especially Louisiana.

The Grandissimes - A Story of Creole Life

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The Grandissimes - A Story of Creole Life
George Cable
Manufacturer: Hill and Wang
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000IOVXRW

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The Grandissimes : A Story of Creole Life
George W. Cable
Manufacturer: New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1883
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000OMHHJG

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THE GRANDISSIMES, A STORY OF CREOLE LIFE
George W. Cable
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000NYH754

The Grandissimes-The Story of Creole Life

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The Grandissimes-The Story of Creole Life
George W. Cable
Manufacturer: Amereon Limited
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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The Grandissimes: A Story of Creole Life
George W. Cable
Manufacturer: Charles Scribner's Sons
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000H8GT00

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The Grandissimes: A Story of Creole Life
George W. Cable
Manufacturer: Charles Scribner's Sons
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000PAS99E

The Grandissimes: The Story of Creole Life (American Century Series)

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The Grandissimes: The Story of Creole Life (American Century Series)
George W. Cable
Manufacturer: Sagamore Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Grandissimes: a Story of Creole Life
George W. Cable
Manufacturer: Hill and Wang
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000L3M2BG

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The Grandissimes, a Story of Creole Life
George W. Cable
Manufacturer: Charles Scribner c.1880 p.1895
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: B000N2828C

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