"In this remarkably well written and abundantly illustrated natural history of Puget Sound, naturalist Kruckeberg takes the reader on a journey through time, from the geological remnants of the last Ice Age to the human impacts of today. Excellent chapters describe regional land forms, climate and weather patterns, inland tides and currents, marine life, forest and animal species, water supplies, and influences of Native American and European cultures. A comprehensive reference for citizens in the Northwest, as well as for conservationists, natural resource professionals, and the general public everywhere. - Choice "Many natural histories are aimed at an audience already in possession of dog-eared field guides and well-worn hiking boots. This one casts a wider net, with a text that is both accessible and scholarly. Stunning black-and-white photographs, beautiful illustrations and intelligent captioning let his volume work equally well as a browse or a read. The Puget Sound watershed now has a lavish book worthy of its great diversity and beauty." - Whole Earth Review "Kruckeberg's book doesn't strain to be either outrageously passionate or a poetic page-turner for its effect.

Rather it is so comprehensive and clear that it will probably become a landmark textbook, one of the basic reference works for understanding this region." - The Seattle Times "An uncommonly beautiful book." - Columbia "Thorough, intelligently written and well illustrated, it is one of the best books to ever come out of the Pacific Northwest." - Victoria Times Colonist "A comprehensive reference, invaluable for all citizens of the Northwest, as well as for conservationists, biologists, foresters, fisheries and wildlife personnel, urban planners, and environmental consultants everywhere." - Biology Digest.