Lightning: Nature and Culture

(Paperback)

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Description

InLightning: Nature and Culture, Derek M. Elsom explores the history ofhumanity's relationship with this natural phenomena from the mythsand legends of the storm deities, to in-depth studies of its artistic representations,to state-of-the-art lightning protection systems on aircraft, shipsand skyscrapers. Lightning explores the stories of those struck by lightning,and asks the vital question: 'What can we do to lessen the risk of being struck'

Beautifully illustrated with stunning lightning displays and strikingimages of storm gods and goddesses, as well as the distinctive fern-likebranching patterns left by lightning on people's skin,Lightning: Nature andCulturewill appeal to all those interested in the natural environment, especiallythose fascinated by extreme weather forces and how weather is anintegral part of our daily lives.

Reviews

This is the best book I have read on the subject of lightning and is very reasonably priced so I can unreservedly recommend it to all readers. * International Journal of Meteorology *
beautifully illustrated with some stunning photographs and artistic renderings . . . a reader-friendly book which will appeal equally to weather buffs and all those fascinated by extreme weather forces, as well as to scientists, folklorists and artists. Its a one-stop shop on lightning. * Weather, magazine of the Royal Meteorological Society *
Lightning: Nature and Culture is a tour de force. Very informative, remarkable photographs and illustrations and will remain close at hand on my bookshelf. An excellent read and source of reference. * Weather Eye *
One of a series of books on natural phenomena that traces a history of the topic through cultural superstitions, scientific discoveries, and depictions in literature and the arts, illustrated by beautiful colour photography. From odd warding customs, the gods of antiquity and ball lightning to lighting marks, St Elmos Fire and solidified lightning (fulgurites), Derek Elsom maintains our interest throughout, making this very accessible to everyman . . . an excellent introduction to one of the mysterious forces of nature. * Fortean Times *
The phenomenon of lightning has long frightened and fascinated humanity. As part of Reaktions Earth series, this book explores the scientific and social aspects of this natural occurrence . . . This book, beautifully illustrated with many color photographs, provides an excellent, basic overview of the subject. * Choice *
What a fantastic idea, science and culture brought down to earth. I can't wait to read the next book in the series. * David Bellamy *
At last, a series of books on the earth for lay people that combine authoritative, succinct and entertaining narrative with magnificent illustrations. The Earth series will make us marvel anew at the diversity and astounding beauty of the world around us. Each book will take popular understanding of the earth to a new level. No one seriously interested in the future of our planet should be without them. * Brian M. Fagan, author of The Great Warming: Climate Change and the Rise and Fall of Civilizations *

Author Bio

Derek M. Elsom is Professor Emeritus of Geography at Oxford Brookes University. His books include Earth: The Making, Shaping and Workings of a Planet (1992), Weather Explained (1997).