The Control of Nature
In 'The Control of Nature,' John McPhee explores humanity's relentless struggle to harness and manipulate the forces of nature. Through captivating narratives, he delves into three distinct locations, revealing the intricate dance between engineering prowess and natural chaos. Readers are drawn into the heart of Louisiana's eroding coastline, volcanic threats in Los Angeles, and the daunting challenges of managing the Mississippi River. With vivid characters and dramatic stakes, McPhee raises profound questions about control, survival, and our impact on the environment. This masterful work invites readers to ponder: can we ever truly dominate nature, or are we mere players in its grand design?
By John McPhee
Published: 1990
""We are always trying to control nature, but nature has its own way of reminding us that it is in charge.""
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
The Control of Nature is John McPhee's bestselling account of places where people are locked in combat with nature. Taking us deep into these contested territories, McPhee details the strageties and tactics through which people attempt to control nature. Most striking is his depiction of the main contestants: nature in complex and awesome guises, and those attempting to wrest control from her - stubborn, sometimes foolhardy, more often ingenious, and always arresting characters.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from The Control of Nature
About the Author
John McPhee
John McPhee is an acclaimed American author and journalist, known for his masterful narrative nonfiction and intricate storytelling. Born on March 8, 1931, he has penned numerous influential works, including 'Coming into the Country,' 'The Control of Nature,' and 'Annals of the Former World,' which won the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography in 1999. McPhee's writing often emphasizes detailed research, vivid prose, and a deep sense of place, reflecting his keen interest in human interaction with the natural world. His ability to merge personal narrative with larger themes has made him a significant figure in contemporary literature.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- John McPhee
- Published
- September 1990
- Publisher
- Farrar, Straus and Giroux
- ISBN
- 0374522596
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 288
- Genres
- Climate ChangeScience and NatureNatural History
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
The Red Queen
Matt Ridley
Merchants of Doubt
Naomi Oreskes, Erik M. Conway
The Sixth Extinction
Elizabeth Kolbert
A Literary Companion to Science
Walter Bruno Gratzer
Coyote America
Dan Flores
Parable of the Sower
Octavia E. Butler
What Lips My Lips Have Kissed
Daniel Mark Epstein
Run Studio Run
Eli Altman
The Complete Novels of Jane Austen
Jane Austen
Memoirs of My Life
Edward Gibbon
Unstoppable
Bill Nye
Everything is Obvious
Duncan J. Watts
Dealers of Lightning
Michael A. Hiltzik
The Hockey Stick and the Climate Wars
Michael E. Mann
Wait
Frank Partnoy
An Inconvenient Truth
Al Gore
Arctica
Sebastian Copeland
The Meaning of the 21st Century
James Martin
Big World, Small Planet
Johan Rockstrom
Emergence
Steven Johnson
The Uninhabitable Earth
David Wallace-Wells
The Ministry for the Future
Kim Stanley Robinson
Florida
Lauren Groff
The Ocean of Life
Callum Roberts
The Planet Remade
Oliver Morton
The New Financial Order
Robert J. Shiller
Negroland
Margo Jefferson
There Is No Planet B
Mike Berners-Lee
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Daniel Pink's Book Recommendations
Daniel Pink is a renowned American author known for his groundbreaking work in the fields of business, work, and behavior. He has penned several bestselling books, including "Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us," which explores the science of motivation and has been translated into over 30 languages. Pink's "A Whole New Mind" and "To Sell is Human" have also received critical acclaim, cementing his reputation as a thought leader. His insightful TED Talks and frequent contributions to major publications further amplify his influence. Pink's work has significantly shaped contemporary understanding of motivation, creativity, and the modern workplace.
View Collection
John Doerr's Book Recommendations
John Doerr is an American venture capitalist and chairman of Kleiner Perkins, one of the most prominent venture capital firms in Silicon Valley. Doerr has backed some of the biggest names in tech, including Google, Amazon, and Netscape, and has played a crucial role in the rise of the internet economy. He is also the author of Measure What Matters, which popularized the concept of Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) as a method for goal-setting in organizations. Doerr is a passionate advocate for addressing climate change and has invested in clean energy startups to help combat global warming. His contributions to tech and sustainability have made him a leading figure in venture capital.
View Collection
Andrew Huberman's Book Recommendations
Andrew Huberman is a renowned neuroscientist and tenured professor at Stanford University, where he leads the Huberman Lab, focusing on brain function, behavior, and health. He has significantly contributed to the understanding of neural plasticity, particularly how the brain can change in response to experience and injury. Huberman is widely recognized for his engaging public science communication, which includes the popular "Huberman Lab" podcast that translates complex neuroscience topics into accessible insights for broad audiences. His research has been published in leading scientific journals, earning him numerous accolades and fostering a deeper public appreciation for neuroscience. Additionally, his work extends into practical applications, influencing fields such as mental health, vision restoration, and performance optimization.
View Collection
Patrick Collison's Book Recommendations
Patrick Collison is an Irish entrepreneur and co-founder of Stripe, a global technology company that enables businesses to accept online payments. Along with his brother John, Patrick has transformed Stripe into one of the most valuable private tech companies in the world. Stripe’s innovative approach to online payments has made it a key player in the financial technology space. Collison is known for his deep interest in science, technology, and policy, often engaging in conversations about innovation, progress, and how to improve societal outcomes. He is an advocate for scientific advancement and the intersection of technology and public policy.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Jim Collins's Book Recommendations
Jim Collins is an acclaimed American author and business consultant known for his influential works on company sustainability and growth. His seminal book, "Good to Great," has sold millions of copies worldwide and is a staple in business literature, providing key insights into how companies transition from mediocre to exceptional. Collins' research-based approach has led to several other bestsellers, including "Built to Last" and "Great by Choice," which delve into the principles of enduring corporate success. A former faculty member at Stanford University's Graduate School of Business, Collins has also co-authored numerous academic articles. His contributions have cemented his reputation as a leading thinker in business strategy and leadership.
View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View Collection
Aubrey Marcus's Book Recommendations
Aubrey Marcus is an influential entrepreneur, author, and podcaster, best known for founding Onnit, a health and wellness company dedicated to optimizing human performance. He authored the acclaimed book "Own the Day, Own Your Life," which offers practical advice on improving daily routines for overall well-being. Marcus's contributions to literature extend through his insightful podcasts and articles that delve into personal development, mental health, and holistic living. As a thought leader, he has inspired countless individuals to pursue a balanced and fulfilling life. His work continues to resonate with a global audience, promoting a message of self-empowerment and holistic health.
View Collection
Adam Gazzaley's Book Recommendations
Adam Gazzaley is a renowned neuroscientist and author known for his groundbreaking work in cognitive neuroscience, particularly in the realms of attention and memory. He is the founding director of the Neuroscape Lab at the University of California, San Francisco, where he pioneers innovative approaches to brain health, including video game-based therapies. Gazzaley co-authored the influential book "The Distracted Mind: Ancient Brains in a High-Tech World," which explores the impact of modern technology on our cognitive capabilities. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including the Society for Neuroscience's Young Investigator Award. Gazzaley's contributions have significantly advanced our understanding of how technology can both challenge and enhance cognitive function.
View Collection
Bill Nye's Book Recommendations
Bill Nye, also known as "Bill Nye the Science Guy," is an American science communicator, mechanical engineer, and television presenter. He rose to fame as the host of the popular children’s science show Bill Nye the Science Guy, which educated a generation of young viewers on scientific concepts in an accessible and entertaining way. Nye is a passionate advocate for science education and environmental causes, particularly in the fight against climate change. He has continued his mission to make science accessible through various media, including books, public speaking, and a Netflix series titled Bill Nye Saves the World. Nye frequently appears as a guest on talk shows and news programs to discuss science-related topics and the importance of evidence-based policies. In addition to his television work, Nye is also the CEO of The Planetary Society, a nonprofit organization that promotes space exploration. His contributions to science communication have earned him widespread recognition and numerous awards.
View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View Collection“"We are always trying to control nature, but nature has its own way of reminding us that it is in charge."”
The Control of Nature
By John McPhee
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.