Ice Rivers: A Story of Glaciers, Wilderness and Humanity

Professor Jemma Wadham, a leading glaciologist, has dedicated her career to studying glaciers, which are in danger due to retreating in the Alps, Andes, and Himalayas and thinning ice sheets in Antarctica. Her memoir, "Ice Rivers," recounts her twenty-five years of expeditions around the globe, highlighting the importance of the ice to ecosystems and human livelihoods.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 04 August 2022
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Longlisted for the prestigious Wainwright Prize and Shortlisted for the esteemed Richard Jeffries Award, "Ice Rivers" is a captivating tale that delves into the profound passion of one remarkable woman for glaciers. As a leading glaciologist, Professor Jemma Wadham has dedicated her career to studying these majestic ice rivers, which cover approximately one-tenth of the Earth's land surface. However, the reality today is far from promising. High up in the majestic Alps, the Andes, and the Himalayas, once-indomitable glaciers are retreating at an alarming rate, a phenomenon known as glacial retreat. In Antarctica, the situation is even more concerning, with thinning ice sheets releasing meltwater into sensitive marine foodwebs, potentially unlocking vast quantities of methane stored deep beneath them. The potential consequences for humanity are almost unfathomable.

Jemma's first encounter with a glacier as a student ignited a lifelong love affair with these icy landscapes. There is nowhere on Earth that she feels more alive than in the presence of these awe-inspiring giants. From abseiling down treacherous crevasses to skidooing across frozen fjords, exploring ice caverns, and dodging polar bears, Jemma's work as a glaciologist is a thrilling and challenging adventure. It is a life that she thoroughly enjoys, and one that she finds deeply fulfilling.

In "Ice Rivers," Jemma takes us on a journey through twenty-five years of expeditions around the globe. Through her eyes, we witness the profound impact of glaciers on crucial ecosystems and human livelihoods. We learn about the importance of the ice to the survival of species, the regulation of water cycles, and the provision of clean drinking water to millions of people. We also come to understand the devastating consequences of climate change on these icy realms, which are not only home to countless species but also play a critical role in shaping our planet's future.

What makes "Ice Rivers" truly unique is Jemma's personal and heartfelt account of her experiences. She shares her journey from a young student to a renowned glaciologist, and her unwavering commitment to protecting these icy treasures. She recounts the challenges and dangers she has faced during her expeditions, as well as the emotional toll of witnessing the rapid decline of glaciers.

But "Ice Rivers" is not just a memoir; it is also an impassioned love letter to the glaciers that have captured Jemma's heart. She expresses her deep admiration for these majestic creatures, their beauty, and their power. She encourages us to recognize the importance of glaciers and to take action to protect them. She calls upon governments, businesses, and individuals to reduce their carbon footprint, support sustainable practices, and advocate for policies that prioritize the conservation of these vital ecosystems.

In conclusion, "Ice Rivers" is a captivating and thought-provoking book that sheds light on the urgent need to address the climate crisis. Through the eyes of a top scientist at the forefront of the issue, Jemma Wadham provides us with a firsthand account of the challenges and opportunities facing our planet's glaciers. This is a memoir that will inspire and educate readers of all ages, and a call to action that we cannot ignore. Let us join hands in protecting these icy giants and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.

Weight: 204g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141994147