"[A] keen and detailed look at the life and history of fresh water. . . . Dip into Fresh Water. It will
both stimulate and satisfy as only good natural history can."
--Toronto Globe and Mail
"Pielou's ease with her subject and her no-nonsense style of writing will satisfy and inspire the poet as
well as the naturalist."
--Denize Springer, Express Books
"[Pielou's] writing is didactic and definitive, in places even charming, and is buttressed by clear illustrations.
. . . A welcome addition to the genre of literature designed to bridge the gap between scientists . . . and the
intelligent and concerned lay public."
--Daniel Hillel, Nature
"A wonderful natural history of one of life's necessities, a refreshing break from the grand theory and special
pleading of many a science book. . . . Read it."
--Fred Pearce, New Scientist
The University of Chicago Press Web Site, March, 2001
Summary
With the eye of a professional scientist and the passion of a dedicated amateur, E. C. Pielou conducts a guided
tour of fresh water on its course through the natural world. As the world's supply of clean, fresh water continues
to dwindle, it becomes increasingly important to understand the close connection between water and all forms of
life. Pielou's fascination with fresh water gives us a "natural history"that is remarkable and surprising.
Table of Contents
Prologue
Ch. 1: The Water Cycle
Ch. 2: Water below the Ground: Groundwater
Ch. 3: Groundwater in Use
Ch. 4: Water below the Ground: Vadose Water
Ch. 5: Flowing Water: Rivers and Streams
Ch. 6: Rivers at Work
Ch. 7: Lakes
Ch. 8: When Water Freezes
Ch. 9: Dams, Diversions, and Reservoirs
Ch. 10: Wetlands
Ch. 11: Microscopic Life
Ch. 12: Water in the Atmosphere: Vapor, Clouds, Rain, and Snow
