Elixir: A History of Water and Humankind

I didn't know all the complexities involved with the use of water. A keeper. I'll read it again and again.Duane Pierce

An extraordinary book. It awaken our sense of duty with nature.

The first few chapters are slow and the author seems intent on impressing us with his research rather than tying humans' advancement with water handling into some kind of history. I made a mistake in not paying attention to the word "History" in the title. I was expecting getting to the present much faster but about chapter 4 I started to appreciate what I was learning somewhat grudgingly.The book needs more diagrams and drawings instead of descriptions.I did get a sense of how precious water is, what a struggle obtaining water has been for many, and how casual I am using water.

I like terms of Brian Fagan so any of his book I read more than once.But lay Japanese knows Chinese history more than fagan knows.Sorry but it is the case.Preferably exchange Chinese history to the sailings or shipbuilding.

I bought this text book for a class. It's not riveting, but it has good information in it and I did end up learning a lot. It's better than the average text book, it's written quite well... but as with most educational materials, it's not entertaining. I only recommend this book if you have to read it for a class, or if you're genuinely interested in learning whether or not it's a fun read.

The most important thing on this planet is not us! It is water. The author, Brian Fagan, is a gentle but thorough teacher.All of his books are treasures. Especially this one. DO READ IT!

The author describes irrigation systems and water usage in a variety of past civilizations around the globe to illustrate the historical value placed on having water. Although many of these systems are interesting, the detail becomes tiring. This book would have been improved if the author would have spent more time relating water usage in the past to present day overuse and needs.

Checked it out of the library and then bought it after I realized I needed to own it so that I could go back to it.