The Creation by E. O. Wilson

Announcing a new arrival: The Creation: An Appeal to Save Life on Earth by E. O. Wilson.

The following review was written by Myka Kennedy Stephens for Congregational Libraries Today, the bimonthly publication of the Church & Synagogue Library Association. Used with permission. Copyright 2007 by the Church and Synagogue Library Association (www.cslainfo.org).

The latest work from renowned entomologist E. O. Wilson is an attempt to educate people of faith about the need to protect the environment. As a letter addressed to a Southern Baptist pastor, The Creation seeks to explore the science behind our biosphere and relate it to a philosophy of stewardship that all humans might embrace. The text is written on the scientific layperson’s level and peppered with grayscale illustrations to enhance the reading experience. It is a primer for those interested in learning more about environmental and biological studies.

The more discerning reader may be slightly disappointed in Wilson’s lack of engagement with religion and faith. Aside from being addressed to a pastor, there is nothing about the book that implies a Christian audience. The cooperative solution he offers in the last pages, forgetting about the differences between science and religion in order to work together, is unimaginative and lacks supporting examples of how this might be carried out. Nevertheless, in the wake of renewed concern about our environment, this book provides good discussion material for any small study group within a congregation.
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Call number: QH303 .W55 2006
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