"A valuable new synthesis of . . . climate, geography, and life during the past 20,000 years. . . . an intimate appreciation of the rich variety of nature." —S. David Webb, Science

The fascinating story of how a harsh terrain that resembled modern Antarctica has been transformed gradually into the forests, grasslands, and wetlands we know today.

"One of the best scientific books published in the last ten years." — Ottowa Journal

"This nicely written narrative weaves together information from several scientific fields, providing the reader with the big picture." — Library Journal