The Secret Knowledge of Water by

Craig Childs, an adventurer and naturalist, shares his extraordinary experiences trekking through the arid lands of the American West. His expeditions reveal the paradoxes of deserts, where beauty and danger coexist, and where the search for water becomes a revelation of nature's extremes. Through his adventures as a river guide and field instructor, Childs develops a deep appreciation for these forbidding landscapes, offering readers a unique perspective on their wonders and challenges. /n/n Childs's account is not just a narrative of survival but a profound exploration of the natural world. His vivid descriptions and personal encounters with the desert's harsh realities make this book an unforgettable journey into one of Earth's most extreme environments. Readers will never look at deserts the same way again after experiencing Childs's adventures.

Reviews

SoBrief · 2025-04-07

eye-opening 4.30

The book is praised for its captivating and eye-opening exploration of desert ecology, with reviewers noting the author's unique perspective. Some occasional critiques are mentioned, but overall, the book is highly regarded.

Reviewers on SoBrief find The Secret Knowledge of Water to be a captivating and eye-opening exploration of desert ecology. They appreciate the author's unique perspective and the way he brings the desert's beauty and danger to life. While some reviewers note occasional critiques, such as the pacing or depth of certain sections, the overall consensus is that the book is highly engaging and informative. The reviewer highlights how Childs's personal experiences and scientific insights create a compelling narrative that resonates with a wide audience.

Quick quotes

"Many find the book captivating and eye-opening, appreciating Childs' unique perspective on desert ecology."

"Some reviewers note occasional critiques, such as the pacing or depth of certain sections."

"The overall consensus is that the book is highly engaging and informative."

Popup Backpacker · 2024-11-16

captivating 4.50

The exploration of the American desert through the lens of water is both profound and engaging, offering a unique perspective on nature's balance. The writing seamlessly blends scientific insight with poetic reflection.

The reviewer finds the book to be a captivating journey through the American desert, highlighting the duality of water as both a rare and torrential force. They appreciate how the author, Craig Childs, weaves together scientific observations with a poetic narrative, making the book both informative and beautifully written. The reviewer is particularly drawn to the way Childs captures the essence of the desert, making it feel both familiar and mysterious. This blend of ecology and personal reflection creates a compelling read that resonates with those who have experienced the desert's harsh yet beautiful environment.

Quick quotes

"The Secret Knowledge of Water is an exploration of the American desert, focusing on this dichotomy of water, both rare and torrential at times."

"Childs's book will speak to anyone who has spent time under desert skies."

"The writing is both informative and beautifully poetic, making the book a unique blend of science and art."

Something Ever Read · Eve Matheson · 2022-03-09

engaging 4.00

The book's blend of nonfiction and personal narrative makes it an engaging read, despite initial reservations about the genre. The author's unique perspective on desert ecology is both informative and thought-provoking.

Eve Matheson initially approached the book with some trepidation, as she doesn't typically read nonfiction. However, she found herself drawn into the narrative, appreciating the way Childs combines ecological insights with personal experiences. Matheson highlights how the book challenges conventional views of deserts, presenting them as dynamic and ever-changing environments. She particularly enjoys the author's ability to make complex ecological concepts accessible and engaging, making the book a rewarding read for both nature enthusiasts and casual readers.

Quick quotes

"When I started reading The Secret Knowledge of Water by Craig Childs, I was nervous. I don't read much nonfiction—which is not to say that I don't enjoy it."

"Childs's unique perspective on desert ecology is both informative and thought-provoking."

"The book challenges conventional views of deserts, presenting them as dynamic and ever-changing environments."

Appears in Lists

22 Best Adventure Nonfiction Books Ever Written (December 2024)