Short Synopsis
This is the most complete book ever written about the history, nature, and science of the Great Lakes. From the geological forces that formed them to the industrial atrocities that nearly destroyed them, to the greatest environmental success stories of our time, the lakes are portrayed in all their complexity.

Full Synopsis
If fresh water is to be treasured, the Great Lakes are the mother lode. No bodies of water can compare to them. One of them, Superior, is the largest lake on earth, and the five lakes together contain a fifth of the world's supply of standing fresh water. Their surface area of 95,000 square miles is greater than New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island combined. They are so vast that they dominate much of the geography, climate, and history of North America. In one way or another, they affect the lives of tens of millions of people.

The Living Great Lakes is the most complete book ever written about the history, nature, and science of these remarkable lakes at the heart of North America. From the geological forces that formed them to the industrial atrocities that nearly destroyed them, to the greatest environmental success stories of our time, the lakes are portrayed in all their complexity. The book, however, is much more than just history. It is also the story of the lakes as told by biologists, fishermen, sailors, and others whom Jerry Dennis grew to know while traveling with them on boats and hiking with them on beaches and islands.

“A fine guide to the Great Lakes with a storyteller’s sense of pacing, savvily blending the factual with the picaresque.” ---Kirkus

“A comprehensive look at the Great Lakes, delving into the cultural and natural history of this vast inland body of fresh water.” ---Library Journal

"Engrossing . . . Dennis weaves anecdotes from his childhood together with informed commentary on the natural history of the lakes and the people who live there as well as evocative descriptions of the enchanting view of the forests along Lake Superior from the schooner." ---Publishers Weekly

"Dennis touches on all five lakes in this compendium, endowing his chronicle with a breadth that makes it a fine introduction to the lakes’ ecology." ---Booklist

"For this work [Barry Press] deftly delivers the narrative and grows increasingly dramatic as he describes frightening storm experiences." ---Sound Commentary Starred Review

Sound Commentary Review