The Edge Of The Sea

"The Edge of the Sea" is a fitting conclusion to Rachel Carson's so-called "Sea Trilogy" that started in 1941 with "Under the Sea Wind" and followed in 1951 with her famous "The Sea Around Us". In this, her final installment, Carson again delves in the Nature of Life at the boundaries of sea and land. As in all her writings, Carson raises the bar for quality nature writing for all future authors. Poetically written for the layman reader this book still serves as a good introduction to Marine Biology. Although much has changed in this branch of science since 1955 it shouldn't make any difference to the the general reader, like myself. Like all scientist's, Carson was well aware that new observations and theories might someday override her conclusions, but in 1955 this book was at the cutting edge of marine biology. Nowadays interested readers just need to keep in mind when the book was written and let that serve as a jumping off place for more up to date publications. The book starts with the ecology of shore life and with the ever changing geology and changes in continental shape and position. Carson does not mention Plate Tectonics or Continental Drift, per say, but does address changing sea levels and the erosional changes to coast lines, world wide. And, as always, she talks about the human impact on the shoreline, pollution and quality of the ocean water itself. Warnings that ring as true today as they did in the mid 20th Century. Ocean life is not only the biology of individual species but more so how different plants and animals intact with one another. No organism lives in isolation but is an active member of a community of living things that live and die according to their very nature. As Carson talks about many of the shores organisms she reminds the readers that some of her conclusions are mere speculation and that much remains to be discovered by future scientists. Her speculations, however, are based on years of intense observations and her own intimate knowledge of sea life. I really enjoyed reading this classic nature book, it offered many incites on our oceans's myriad livings things, their life histories and evolution. It also offered a look on where the oceans have come from and where they may be going in years to come. The original edition had many fine line-drawings by wildlife artist Robert W. Hines that are included in the Kindle edition. Also included in this e-reader edition is a new introduction by modern nature writer Sue Hubbell. I had no technical or downloading problems with this Kindle edition.Last Ranger

Rachel is able to run through so many organisms and how their life is entangled in one another so effortlessly. While some parts can be a bit cumbersome to read through, you will learn about marine life that you never even heard of! This is a robust guide through plant and animal life, with only a sprinkle of climate factors(to my dismay).

So interesting and so well written. Anyone who lives or visits by the edge of the sea will learn so much and come away with awe. I highly recommend this book!

Rachel Carson methodically takes you on a journey from the edges of the ocean to the near off shore. Her insights are thoughtful. Her writing at times poetic could at times become tedious.

Being a beach person, I enjoyed this book on the different types of shores. My favorite, though, was on the sandy beaches of the southeast. Parts may be a bit dated, but it was worth reading.

So well-written. Carson was so knowledgeable about the sea and the life it supports. And the illustrations in the book are superb. while written many years ago, this book is as relevant today as it was then. if you love the sea, this book is a must-read.

I read the book for the first time many years ago and have recently purchased it again for my Kindle. It has so much in it for anyone who loves the sea and is also curious about the creatures in it. Carson is a gifted writer and the illustrations help make it a real educational experience. Even though it is easy to read, it is not to be read through quickly because there is way too much to be learned.

What a great book that has me looking at the edge of the sea in a whole new light. Amazing how this has been going on for millions of years and continues right now and to just think that's where we all started...wow

Wie der Mensch Tiere am Meeresufer begegnen kann, ist von Rachel Carson sehr schön beschrieben. Dieses Buch eröffnet die Umwelt des Meeres ohne nass zu werden!Gruß aus sonnige Franken!!Carl

A classic study on the sea