The Reef: A Passionate History: The Great Barrier Reef from Captican Cook to Climate Change

The Great Barrier Reef has captivated people for centuries. However, its history has been elusive. In this book, acclaimed historian and explorer Iain McCalman recounts the many stories of the reef.

This book follows the lives of twenty intrepid souls, from Captain James Cook and his voyage across a mysterious coral maze to the world’s leading reef scientist, John “Charlie” Veron, whose personal mission is to save the reef from catastrophe. These extraordinary individuals, including explorers, scientists, beachcombers, photographers, divers, and indigenous peoples and their adopted castaways, were drawn to the reef for diverse reasons, but all shared a passion for this vast coral country. McCalman explores how the reef has been perceived as a labyrinth of terror, a nurturing heartland, a scientific challenge, and a fragile global wonder.

(This book may contain a sharpie mark on the top or bottom edge and may show mild signs of shelfwear.)