The Sixth Extinction

by Elizabeth Kolbert
The Sixth Extinction cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Investigative Journalism
Technical:
  • ID: 607
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9781408851234
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
  • Published: 2014-02-13
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3
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Waterstones
Paperback • £12.99

The Sixth Extinction by Elizabeth Kolbert is a Pulitzer Prize-winning book that delves into the alarming rate of species extinction currently occurring on Earth. Kolbert combines meticulous research with compelling storytelling to highlight the stories of various species, some already extinct and others on the brink. The book not only provides a stark look at the environmental crisis but also challenges readers to reconsider humanity's role in this devastating event. Through her work, Kolbert urges us to understand the profound implications of our actions on the natural world and the urgent need for change. Kolbert's reporting takes her to various parts of the world, where she interviews scientists and observes firsthand the effects of human activity on ecosystems. The book is a powerful call to action, blending natural history, field reporting, and the history of ideas to create a comprehensive account of the sixth mass extinction. It is a must-read for anyone concerned about the future of our planet and the legacy we will leave behind.

Reviews
Read with Angie · Angie · 2021-03-19
informative 4.75

The book is engaging, edifying, and often unsettling. It takes readers through past extinctions and the current crisis.

Angie finds the book to be an excellent piece of science writing that is both engaging and informative. The stories are compelling and take readers on a journey through past mass extinctions and the current crisis. The book is praised for its ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible and understandable. Angie appreciates the book's ability to educate and provoke thought, making it a must-read for anyone interested in environmental issues.

Quick quotes

    Science writing at its best—engaging, edifying, and often unsettling

    The book's stories take readers from past to present, making complex concepts accessible

    A must-read for anyone interested in environmental issues

The Guardian · 2014-02-14
engaging 4.50

The book offers well-composed snapshots of history, theory, and observation. It provides a compelling look at humanity's impact on the planet.

The reviewer appreciates the lucid and engaging writing style that makes complex scientific concepts accessible. The book is praised for its ability to weave together historical accounts, scientific theory, and personal observations, creating a comprehensive and thought-provoking narrative. The reviewer finds the book both informative and unsettling, highlighting the urgent need to address the current mass extinction crisis.

Quick quotes

    Well-composed snapshots of history, theory and observation

    Elizabeth Kolbert offers a compelling look at humanity's impact on the planet

    A book that urgently compels us to rethink the fundamental question of what it means to be human

The New York Times · 2014-02-10
sobering 4.00

The book examines the role of man-made climate change in causing the sixth mass extinction. It is noted for its lucid prose and thorough research.

The reviewer commends the book for its clear and concise exploration of a complex topic. The writing is described as lucid and engaging, making it accessible to a wide audience. The book's thorough research and compelling arguments are highlighted, providing a sobering look at the impact of human activity on the planet. The reviewer finds the book to be both informative and thought-provoking, urging readers to consider the long-term consequences of our actions.

Quick quotes

    In lucid prose, she examines the role of man-made climate change

    A sobering look at the impact of human activity on the planet

    Compelling arguments that urge readers to consider the long-term consequences

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