The book has a wide range for its intended audience, appropriate for the general public and anyone interested in science. The material does not require a strong background in biology as the book allow for accessibility to the content by providing necessary introductory knowledge. From a scientific communication perspective, Ruth Kassinger’s work is important as it serves as a bridge between the general public and the academic community at a time when science can seem inaccessible. The book is organized in a narrative structure, making very few assumptions about outside or prior knowledge of ecological biology that could be a barrier for people outside the world of research. It has four sections that cover a wide range of topics from biological origins to fuel potential, food production, and even algae’s role in our current climate crisis.
The first section of the book goes into biological history of algae and how it is responsible for the rise of complex land dwelling organisms. Lichens can serve as an important marker of planet’s health, which warrants more research and surveillance. They can survive in a wide range of habitats and conditions, serving as a vital food source for many species. The second section focuses more on algae as a food source. Many Asian cultures historically incorporate seaweed into their diets, which has been disrupted by historical conflicts damaging algae ecosystems. Algae are also nutritionally rich and has the great potential. The third section acknowledges a growing issue; antibiotic resistance and inappropriate use in farm animals.
The indiscriminate use of antibiotics in farm animals for growth acceleration has been a major source resistance development. Though the issue may be somewhat simplified, the impact is still appreciable. Kelp and other seaweeds have the potential to replace traditional antibiotics in farm animals and stem the tide of antibiotic resistance. The challenges of algae in the realm of developing biofuels is also explored. The final section tackles an obvious yet still debated topic; climate change. Despite overwhelming evidence of climate change and its negative impact on global health, there is still much to be learned. Algae is not always beneficial; environments that experience disruption can be vulnerable to algal blooms and negative effects.
However, if harnessed correctly, algae can help us reverse some of the damage we are doing to exacerbate climate change. Kassinger does an excellent job of weaving personal anecdotes and story-telling elements with a topic that can be complex by nature. The book is very accessible to readers of all levels of scientific understanding. Though algae has the potential to be disruptive if left unchecked in certain marine ecosystems, it also has the potential to serve as an important resource moving forward. It would be a very valuable reading for high school and college level students; it can serve as an inspirational reading to get people interested in science at an influential time.
