Big Thirst, The
Fishman, CharlesFrom the needs of the seven billion inhabitants of earth, to the demands of fuel hungry societies and widespread pollution, a substance essential to our very existence is under threat: water. Journalist Charles Fishman plumbs the depths of the role water plays in our lives; how we use it, abuse it, allocate it and fight over it.
Highly informative while entertaining and easy to read, this book considers water management in several countries as well as presenting constructive solutions to the water challenges the world faces. [Small font]
Comments from Groups
A very worthwhile book which we all found of great interest. We now have a much wider perspective and understanding of water. The message was hopeful - much to discuss! Coromandel 002 An interesting book that reflected a huge amount of research into one of the most worrying concerns of the present-day. It provided much discussion for group members, and we found the anecdotal style and the detailed data increased our understanding of the issues. On the other hand, the repetitive nature of the information and the sheer volume of the book were intimidating for a number of the group. Palmerston North 002 This is a fascinating book; the somewhat mundane subject of water made very informative and interesting. This is the type of book which is the reason we belong to book club. Most members intend getting their own copy, as everyone in the family wanted to read it! Mangawhai 001 Excellent - at times a little long-winded but easy to read. Recommended as a 'must' read. Lively discussion. Whangarei 004 The sheer volume of information deterred one reader but fascinated most. We noted our changing attitudes to water in our lifetimes (we are all over 65), and thought reticulating 'purple pipes' would be hugely expensive but needs to be done by our generation rather than passing the responsibility on to the next. Whakatane 008 We all thought this book was extremely interesting. Charles Fishman has the gift of relating scientific facts and data to the ordinary things of life, making them easy to understand. Great discussion - we agreed it was of great importance, and a 'must' read for all. Rotorua 006 A book packed with detail and interesting facts, and relevant scenarios. Water affects each of us in many different ways, so everyone had a different perspective in the discussion. Wanaka 013
Pages
402
402
Year
2011
2011
Reviews
10-01-2024
Most found there was too much information, but found it very interesting.
04-12-2023
An easy to read book, should be compulsory reading for year 11s. Not everyone read it, but those that did, loved it.
20-06-2022
Not everyone read this. We have had some sobering reads in the past few months, and this one was a challenging read. Small print didn't help. Those who did take the time found it an educational read and a fascinating insight into how water is perceived, harvested and taken for granted. We thought it well-written and meticulously researched.
22-04-2022
We liked the topic and the style, but found it longwinded and repetitive at times. So many facts and figures to take in, but fascinating insights and human stories though. We admired the amount of research and compilation of data. A reminder of how we use and value water. Everyone needs to read it!
06-05-2020
The book increased our awareness of water problems throughout the world, and gave rise to lively discussion.
06-05-2020
Good discussion, but all found it too wordy. Lots of forgettable statistics.
06-05-2020
Don't be put off by the first chapter - there are a few too many facts but it settles down and becomes incredibly interesting. We found the small print an issue.
06-05-2020
This book changed the way we think about water. It's packed full of information, but includes lots of human interest stories about how ingenuity is being used to address complex water issues. Highly recommended!
06-05-2020
Although not all members finished the book, we all enjoyed what we were able to read. The discussion was lively and for those of us who did read it all, we found it both interesting and thought provoking.
06-05-2020
Most people thought it was great. Maybe a bit long, but lots of new insights.
06-05-2020
This was a very worthwhile book to read - difficult, and at times technical, but with such an important message. It gave us so much to think about, and we had a very rewarding conversation about it. It really did change our mindset about water, and will not be easily forgotten.
06-05-2020
Interesting and topical. Well thought out, with informal presentation of information. The sort of book everyone should read.
06-05-2020
The topic is an important one which affects us all. There were some startling and fascinating facts, and some very worrying ones. The presentation was very dense - too many facts and statistics, stopping the flow and making recall difficult.