Striper Wars: An American Fish Story

This is a compelling and focused look at one environmental issue that has attracted interest from men and women who, generally, aren't involved in civic action or environmental work. Part biography of striped bass, part exploration of sport fisherman, part explanation of the interconnectedness of business and environmental interest, this book does a good job of not only explaining an increasingly serious issue over the last few decades, but also showing the Human side of our effects on the environment. Much time here is spent on the commercial interests involved, on agricultural effects and interests, and on, simply, pleasure and tradition. Russell's research brings him in contact with corporate America, farmers, and small-town show more businessmen even moreso than scientists and sport fisherman, though all are represented, and the time spent on research is obvious.

For straight non-fiction, this is a fairly easy read, obviously written for the layman with a passing interest in the subject or an interest in general environmental science or fishing. It might be a lot to take in one sitting, but for anyone with a life or living connected to the coast (or near-coastal tourism), or with an interest in further understanding the interconnectedness of day-to-day business with the environment, I'd recommend this as a worthwhile read. show less