A review by goblue22
The Invention of Nature: Alexander Von Humboldt's New World by Andrea Wulf

5.0

Alexander Von Humboldt directly influenced Charles Darwin, Simón Bolívar, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Henry David Thoreau, and John Muir. He discovered the concept of keystone species, the web of life—that all species are connected—climate zones, air currents and highlighted the damaging effects of deforestation and colonization on the environment. Besides from Napoleon, he was the most famous person of his time. And yet today he is largely forgotten. At least I did not know much about him.

This book brings Humboldt’s adventures and influential discoveries to life. It is detailed, yet accessible and all together a great read.