The Future of Life by Edward O. Wilson, 2002.

Like many/most environmental books, an inventory of the sorry shape of the planet and the horrifying rate of extinction we're causing. Particularly fascinating depictions of rare and unusual threatened animals. But--unusual and refreshing--the last section of the book is guardedly optimistic about the possibility of reversing these trends and actually proposes useful, workable solutions. The very best thing is a dispassionate look at the two sides of the environmental debate, how they see /stereotype each other, and what can be done about it.

My other favorite thing is the photo on the jacket of Wilson with an anteater. Wilson's holding out something in one hand, but the anteater is nosing his shirt instead, its powerful claws resting on his other hand. It looks remarkably dim and confused, yet sweet, with its tiny eyes, small head and humongous forearms. I saw some giant anteaters at the Tucson zoo and was struck by how narrow their skulls are--it didn't seem that an actual brain could fit inside that tube-like compartment.