Overview

Drawn to the mysteries of tropical rain forests and fascinated by life in the treetops, Meg Lowman has pursued a life of scientific exploration while raising her two sons, Edward and James Burgess. This book recounts their family adventures in remote parts of the world (Samoa, West Africa, Peru, Panama, India, Biosphere 2, and others), from the perspectives of both kids and parent. Together they explore tropical rain forests, encounter anacondas and piranhas, eat crickets as hors d'oeuvres, discover new species, and nurture a family ethic for conservation. The chapters of the book focus on field biology questions, the canopy access methods developed to answer the questions, and conservation or education components of each expedition. Lowman enumerates the challenges and joys of juggling parenthood and career, and the children reflect on how their mom's work has affected their lives. A rollicking, inspiring book, It's a Jungle Up There is an upbeat portrayal of how a parent's career can imprint children, and how children in turn can influence the success and trajectory of their parent's career.

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9780300108637

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Reviews

Meg Lowman epitomizes the Earthwatch model of science and education, inspiring people to join her in the vital quest for sustainable solutions. Her eye for the details in nature, and the promise of inspired young minds, is as sharp as her scientific insights on the rainforest. Earthwatch is proud to have supported her efforts, and thrilled with the results. Ed Wilson, President & CEO of Earthwatch Institute -- Ed Wilson

Meg Lowman epitomizes the Earthwatch model of science and education, inspiring people to join her in the vital quest for sustainable solutions. Her eye for the details in nature, and the promise of inspired young minds, is as sharp as her scientific insights on the rainforest. Earthwatch is proud to have supported her efforts, and thrilled with the results. -Ed Wilson, President & CEO of Earthwatch Institute -- Ed Wilson Lowman's spirited tale of science and single parenting is inspirational. -Publishers Weekly * Publishers Weekly * Several cuts above many of her contemporaries; her passion for her profession, and her children, is both powerful and moving. * Booklist * Imagine if Tarzan and Jane had two boys and Jane were a scientist as well as mom, and you will understand the fascination of this stimulating, hard-to-put-down and personal account. A most engaging tale of how rich and exciting a scientific life can be. -Thomas Lovejoy, President, Heinz Center for Science, Economics and the Environment -- Thomas Lovejoy In this marvelous book Margaret Lowman reveals with clarity, grace and passion a nobility of purpose as she takes the reader through her fascinating journey through life. She continues to break the mold of scientist by revealing how she pursued a life of research while raising a family literally in the jungle. This book is an inspiration and Margaret Lowman an original with her fascinating insights on motherhood and saving this planet. But most of all Lowman provides a beautifully written plea for why everyone can and must find a reason for hope. Her eloquent prose will resonate with readers of all ages and educational backgrounds. -Richard Wiese, President, Explorers Club -- Richard Wiese The inspiring story of a woman who has been able to pursue her love of science, research, and conservation while raising children. -Laura Meyerson, University of Rhode Island -- Laura Meyerson A lively, readable book that will help to educate a variety of readers about scientific research and processes in forest environments, as well as the importance of environmental conservation. -Ellen Wohl, Colorado State University -- Ellen Wohl

Author Information

Margaret D. Lowman is director of environmental initiatives and professor of biology and environmental studies at New College of Florida. Edward Burgess is a member of the class of 2007 at Princeton University, where he is majoring in chemistry. James Burgess is a member of the class of 2009 at Princeton University, where he plans to focus on engineering.

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