Sublime
Nature is the first volume in a new series from the National
Geographic Society seeking to publish books that confirm a commitment to
"the conservation of our extraordinary planet's natural resources."
In this first installment, Cristina
Mittermeier, a marine biologist turned photographer, has assembled a
breathtaking collection of stunning images from an array of wildlife and
environmental photographers who capture the beauty of nature in a way she hopes
will "awaken broad-based social consciousness."
The book is divided into
four parts: Awe, Grace, Joy and Peace. Each section begins with a brief poetic,
personal introduction by Mittermeier. Along
the way, inspirational quotes from renowned writers, naturalists, scientists
and artists serve the four themes. The accompanying 100-plus scenic images from
various locales range from landscapes, wildlife, flowers, waterways, local
natives and natural wonders of the world. There are penguins atop dramatic
icebergs in Antarctica, striking waves of sand on arid Moroccan dunes, a fisherman
casting his line into a coral inlet in Indonesia, a graceful ballet of
bottlenose dolphins in Peru and a dusky gloom trapped amid rocky chambers in
Arizona.
Mittermeier is committed and
passionate in her belief that photography can influence the fate of nature. The
visuals she has selected are lively and thought-provoking in subject matter—brilliant
compositions bursting with vivid color and light. The impact of the photographs
paired with profound words is bound to encourage others to find meaning,
appreciation and a greater respect for a vulnerable planet facing continued
wildlife extinction, climate change and diminishing natural resources.
Publication Date: March 25,
2014
Note: This review is a reprint and is being
posted (in a slightly different form) with the permission of Shelf
Awareness. To read this review on Shelf
Awareness: Reader's Edition (3/28/14), click HERE