48 pages • 1 hour read
Marc ReisnerCadillac Desert: The American West and Its Disappearing Water
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1986A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Originally published in 1986, Cadillac Desert: The American West and Its Disappearing Water by Marc Reisner illustrates how precarious the American West’s water supply is. The book reveals the environmental and political consequences of extensive water projects, such as dams and aqueducts, which facilitated Western expansion but led to environmental degradation and conflicts over scarce resources.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Marc Reisner’s Cadillac Desert is widely praised for its compelling narrative on water politics in the American West, offering insightful historical context and environmental commentary. However, some critics find it overly detailed and dense. The book remains a seminal, thought-provoking critique on resource management, essential for those interested in environmental studies.
Who Should Read Cadillac Desert?
Readers who enjoy Cadillac Desert by Marc Reisner are typically interested in environmental history, water politics, and conservation. They appreciate thorough research and engaging narratives similar to those found in Rachel Carson's Silent Spring and John McPhee's Encounters with the Archdruid. Suitable for students, policy makers, and environmental enthusiasts.