"A superior synthesis of recent research from many scientific disciplines, this eloquent book could serve as a model for how scientists should write for nonspecialists about the critical environmental challenges of our time. An excellent companion to Elizabeth Kolbert's The Sixth Extinction." Library Journal "A pragmatic approach to finding workable solutions to a looming crisis." Kirkus Reviews "Powerful and passionate prose... Time may be short, but this is a message of hope for readers looking for a better future." Publishers Weekly "Beautifully written... A very learned book, but it's very approachable and fun... Anyone who is interested in the future of the planet or loves animals should check this one out ." -Annalee Newitz, The Best Science Books of 2014 Science Friday "A rattling read and punchily packaged. Barnosky's prose is tight and accessible, and it lays the crisis on the line." New Scientist "Well-written and accessible ... Barnosky provides an informed perspective of Earth's past mass extinctions and the lessons that can be learned from them to understand the present crises ... A must read for college students and a well-informed citizenry." -- C. A. McRoberts CHOICE "Barnosky provides a long list of things we need to do to move to more efficient energy use." Word & World