“Quammen writes about biology and the world of living things with a jaundiced, cockeyed view. He has a healthy respect for the absurdity of life as well as its silliness. . . . He writes with effortless control over his material and a quiet passion.” —Los Angeles Times

“David Quammen’s curiosity is infectious and his thought provocative. Lewis Thomas and Stephen Gould will have to make room for him in the small company of distinguished essayists in the natural sciences.” —Peter Matthiessen

“Quammen’s commentaries on natural history are unique, a delightful blend of skepticism, charming intelligence, and accurate reporting.” —Barry Lopez

“One of the nation’s most eloquent spokesmen for nature.” —San Francisco Chronicle