Overview of how coal has shaped human life in the world, and is now shaping the climate. Interesting, but a very careful and cautious book. I did enjoy the historical parts, (attempt to use phospherescent fish as light sources in mines) but the author is aware that "Coal is King" under the previous admistration, and she is a political appointee.

Best quote of the book? Discussing the attempt to whitewash 'clean coal' she suggests "'Coal-- Essential, Affordable, and Killing Thousands Fewer Americans Than It Used To' may be closer to the truth, but nobody is going to base an ad campaign on it." (pp 176-177)

Placed in 6of8's MaryZee's Biography of Things Bookbox. Travel far ....

Made its way to Colorado in MZ's memorial bookbox --

Again I am intrigued, but there are a few others I would like to read more...so back in the box it goes.

Taken from MaryZee's Biographies of Things box with thanks.