A fascinating account of the many manifestations and cultural meanings of water from the sky. There are discussions of the water cycle (of course), global warming (and how to combat it), rain deities (including the unknowing one in “So Long and Thanks for All the Fish”), the history of weather forecasting, rain in literature and music (though Barnett leaves out art and classical music – I would have at least mentioned Takemitsu’s “Garden Rain” and the thunderstorms in Beethoven’s “Pastoral” and R. Strauss’ “Alpine” symphonies), and a long chapter on the making of a particular perfume in India that supposedly captures the aroma of rain. Included in the latter discussion are definitions and discussions of “petrachor” and “geosmin”, two types of rain-smell. This is a book full of trivia and information, and it’s worth having around simply to refer to from time to time.

One of the most absolutely beautiful books that I have ever read. It was intellectually a lot for me to take in but so lyrical, vivid, and fluid. I LOVED everything about it and the hunts it took me on. Truly appreciative of such a comprehensive and beautiful gem!! So glad to have happened upon this!!

Ultimate weather "junkie's" chronicle. Also, delves into historical movements that were probably influenced by weather.