The Nature of Chicago: A Comprehensive Guide to Natural Sites in and Around the City [Paperback]

Isabel S. Abrams (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 1, 1997

Whether the goal is a wetland to explore or a hilly park to bike-ride in, a nature tour of the Lake Michigan dunes or a visit to the giraffes and gorillas at Brookfield Zoo, this unique guide has it all. Natural history buffs will learn where to look for Native American trails, ancient lakeshores, wildlife sanctuaries, and museums with nature exhibits. Outdoor enthusiasts will find new places to fish, swim, canoe, hike, toboggan, or picnic with the family. All the sites are presented as tours, with travel directions and tips for a successful visit. A calendar of year-round outdoor events and a listing of nature-friendly organizations is included.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Abrams, scientific journal writer and cofounder of Caretakers of the Environment International, believes that to see the real Chicago one must venture beyond the steel and concrete of the city, and she has written a fascinating guide to help travelers discover and understand the natural sites. Abrams begins by placing Chicago in geologic time, 400 million years ago, when the Silurian Sea covered the Mississippi valley. She discusses the role of the Ice Age glaciers that shaped the land, the influence of Lake Michigan on the climate, and the biology of natural habitats. Each section offers tours of parks, rivers, gardens, trails, natural history museums, and other sites. A year-round calendar of events and a directory of Chicago nature organizations completes this enlightening guide, which will challenge anyone who asserts that "nature" and "city" are mutually exclusive. Highly recommended.?Pamela W. Bellows, Northwestern Conn. Community Tech. Col. Lib., Winstead
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Paperback: 278 pages
• Publisher: Chicago Review Press (May 1, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1556523122
• ISBN-13: 978-1556523120
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,097,359 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Some interesting places to see, April 4, 2001

By A Customer

This review is from: The Nature of Chicago: A Comprehensive Guide to Natural Sites in and Around the City (Paperback)

It had a bit of history alongside a listing of places to go and see a bit of that history. It was nice to find some hidden spots not far from my home. I recently moved to the western suburbs and found quite a few wildlife preserves and recreation areas I wouldn't have noticed otherwise.

5.0 out of 5 stars If you live in Chicago area and love nature, THIS is your guide!, October 25, 2008

By 

T. Test "Tigers Fan" (Chicago, IL) - See all my reviews
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Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: The Nature of Chicago: A Comprehensive Guide to Natural Sites in and Around the City (Paperback)

This book is exactly what I was looking for, and I'm so happy I've found it. I love nature, and really miss that connection since moving into the city of Chicago 20 years ago. This book tells me everything I need to know about where I can go nearby to get me nature fix.

For example, I found out about a wonderful little nature preserve called North Park Village in the city's northwest side. I took my 4 year-old there this August, and we were mesmerized by all the sights and sounds. Imagine a path through tall prairie where you could find praying mantises by the dozens. Beautiful flowers, a pond with tiny fish and salamanders. There are even fox here.

2 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fun and educational romp through Chicago's special places, December 20, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Nature of Chicago: A Comprehensive Guide to Natural Sites in and Around the City (Paperback)

This well-researched "ecohistory" helped me discover -- and rediscover -- some of Chicagoland's special places. Looking through new eyes, I was able to gain a new appreciation for my favorite spots, as well as explore some hidden gems. I highly recommend this guide for both visitors and residents!