Books matching: meteorology
21 result(s)
- #1
Save:"The Children's Blizzard" by David Laskin explores the devastating blizzard that hit the Great Plains in 1888, focusing on the personal tragedies and triumphs of those who experienced the storm firsthand. Laskin delves deep into the historical, economic, and scientific context surrounding the blizzard, detailing the meteorological causes and the impact of hypothermia on the victims. Through narratives of immigrant families from Norway, Germany, and Eastern Europe, the book paints a vivid picture of the hardships faced by settlers in the Midwest during this natural disaster.
The author weaves together accounts of the blizzard's victims, the struggles of pioneers, and the evolving field of meteorology, creating a comprehensive narrative that combines elements of collective biography, history, and science. offers a detailed exploration of the events leading up to and following the blizzard, shedding light on the human resilience and tragedy intertwined with the forces of nature.
Land, freedom, and hope. In the narrow stony valleys of Norway and the heavily taxed towns of Saxony and Westphalia, in Ukrainian villages bled by the recruiting officers of the czars and Bohemian far... Alone: The Classic Polar Adventure by Richard Evelyn Byrd is a gripping account of Byrd's harrowing experience of spending the Antarctic winter alone in a hut. Byrd's writing style draws readers in with vivid descriptions of his day-to-day struggles to survive in extreme conditions, while also reflecting on the human spirit's capacity for endurance. The book delves into Byrd's complex character, detailing his physical and mental challenges as he battles solitude, freezing temperatures, and design faults in his shelter.
BOLLING ADVANCE WEATHER BASE, WHICH I MANNED ALONE during the Antarctic winter night of 1934, was planted in the dark immensity of the Ross Ice Barrier, on a line between Little America and the South ...- #3
Save:"Storm" by George R. Stewart is a detailed exploration of the birth, growth, and impact of a powerful storm that descends upon Northern California. Set in 1941, the book follows the storm's journey from its inception off the coast of Japan to its several-day impact on California. Through the perspectives of various characters, including weather forecasters, road crews, and lovers on a trip, the narrative weaves together human experiences and the might of nature, emphasizing the interconnectedness of people and weather. Stewart's writing style brings the events and characters to life, making the 80-year-old story feel timeless and relevant even today.
The book delves into the meteorology of the storm, describing its effects on the lives of many individuals and the infrastructure of California in the early 1940s. Stewart skillfully makes the storm itself a central character, portraying its development, impact, and aftermath in a way that highlights the fragility of humanity in the face of nature's power. Through a mix of historical context, detailed storytelling, and engaging characters, "Storm" offers readers a captivating glimpse into the complexities of weather forecasting and the resilience of individuals facing natural disasters.
- #4
Save:"Second Wind" by Dick Francis follows the story of Perry Stuart, a meteorologist who finds himself entangled in situations beyond his control. The plot involves Perry's expertise in weather forecasting being sought after by racehorse trainers for underfoot conditions. The novel introduces engaging characters like Perry's wheelchair-bound grandmother and a manic-depressive friend, taking readers on a journey involving extreme weather, flying, and international conspiracies. Despite some finding the writing not as smooth as typical Dick Francis novels, the book gains momentum as the story progresses, offering a mix of mystery, delightful characters, and stormy content.
'Isaac's Storm: A Man, a Time, and the Deadliest Hurricane in History' by Erik Larson tells the story of the devastating Galveston hurricane of 1900. The narrative revolves around Isaac Cline, the chief meteorologist for Galveston, who failed to predict the severity of the hurricane, leading to a catastrophic loss of life. Larson skillfully weaves together the personal stories of individuals affected by the storm, the background of the weather service, and the city of Galveston itself, providing a detailed account of the events leading up to and following the disaster. Through meticulous research and vivid descriptions, the author brings to life the ignorance, arrogance, and tragic consequences of the deadliest hurricane in US history.
The writing style of the book combines historical facts with personal narratives, creating a compelling and informative read. Larson delves into the history of weather forecasting at the turn of the century, the political dynamics within the Weather Bureau, and the human aspects of the individuals involved in the events surrounding the Galveston hurricane. offers a gripping portrayal of the power and unpredictability of nature, highlighting the devastating impact of the storm on the city and its inhabitants.
Now chairman of the history department, Dodd had been a professor at the university since 1909, recognized nationally for his work on the American South and for a biography of Woodrow Wilson. He was s...'The Cloudspotter's Guide' by Gavin Pretor-Pinney is a delightful and informative book that explores the world of clouds in a charming and engaging way. The author blends love and knowledge to create a unique reading experience that is both educational and entertaining. Through stories, trivia, and historical references, readers are taken on a journey to understand the different types of clouds and their significance in nature and art. The book is written in a light-hearted and accessible style, making it suitable for both cloud enthusiasts and those with a passing curiosity about the sky above.
From identifying the different cloud types to learning about the science behind them, 'The Cloudspotter's Guide' offers a wealth of information presented in a way that is easy to understand and enjoy. With clear diagrams, photos, and interesting anecdotes, the book provides a comprehensive guide to appreciating the beauty and wonder of clouds, making it a must-read for anyone who looks up at the sky with curiosity and awe.
Cumulus also feel like the most generic and basic of all the varieties. Picture a cloud in your mind and it is likely to have the shape of a Cumulus, which is probably why it was their gentle, bulging...- #7
Save:In 'Atmospheric Disturbances' by Rivka Galchen, the story follows Dr. Leo Lieberstein, a psychiatrist who comes home to find his wife replaced by a doppelganger. As he embarks on a quest to find his true wife, Leo delves into themes of reality, identity, and madness. The writing style is described as engaging, with darkly humorous insights into relationships and a narrative that blurs the lines between truth and delusion.
The plot of the book revolves around Leo's journey to uncover the mystery surrounding his wife's disappearance and his encounters with patients like Harvey, who believes he can control the weather. The book explores themes of perception, paranoia, and the complexities of the human mind, all while maintaining a narrative that is both intriguing and disconcerting.
I have mentioned my patient Harvey, but I have failed to properly discuss him and the odd coincidence, or almost co-incidence, of his having vanished just two days before Rema did. So, actually, most ... Rain: A Natural and Cultural History by Cynthia Barnett is a comprehensive exploration of the significance of rain in human history and culture. The book delves into various aspects of rain, from its scientific properties to its impact on society, weaving together stories of how humans have interacted with this life-giving force throughout time. Barnett's writing style combines scientific facts with personal anecdotes, creating a well-rounded narrative that captures the essence of rain and its importance in our lives.
The rain on Mars was gentle, and welcome. Sometimes, the rain on Mars was blue. One night, rain fell so marvelously upon the fourth planet from the sun that thousands of trees sprouted and grew overni...- #9
Save:"Evolution's Captain" by Peter Nichols is a fascinating historical narrative that delves into the lives of two remarkable men, Captain FitzRoy and Charles Darwin, and their journey aboard the Beagle. It offers detailed descriptions of the hardships of 19th-century travel, religious fanaticism, and Victorian colonization, while also shedding light on the lesser-known contributions of Captain FitzRoy, such as his invention of the weather forecast system. The narrative captures the essence of British society during the Victorian age, providing insights into the sea travel, scientific exploration, and political dynamics of the time.
paints a vivid picture of Captain FitzRoy as a courageous yet flawed man, showcasing his complexities and the pivotal role he played in enabling Darwin's groundbreaking work on evolution. Through engaging storytelling and meticulous research, the author weaves together a compelling account of these two historical figures, offering readers a deeper understanding of Darwin's voyage to the Galapagos and the societal context in which he conducted his research.
- #10
Save:'Chaos: Making a New Science' by James Gleick is a book that delves into the emerging field of chaos theory, exploring concepts of randomness, complexity, and nonlinear systems. Through the history of discoveries in chaos theory, the author not only explains the scientific principles but also introduces the readers to the scientists behind these groundbreaking ideas. The book provides insights into the thought processes and investigative techniques used by researchers to study chaos, showcasing the human stories intertwined with the scientific advancements.
THE POLICE IN THE SMALL TOWN of Los Alamos, New Mexico, worried briefly in 1974 about a man seen prowling in the dark, night after night, the red glow of his cigarette floating along the back streets....
