Sublime Nature is the first volume in a National Geographic Society series of books that confirm a commitment to "the conservation of our extraordinary planet's natural resources." Cristina Mittermeier, a marine biologist turned photographer, has assembled a collection of stunning images from an array of wildlife and environmental photographers who capture the beauty of nature in a way she hopes will "awaken broad-based social consciousness."
The book is divided into four sections: Awe, Grace, Joy and Peace. Each begins with a brief, poetic personal introduction by Mittermeier. Along the way, inspirational quotes from renowned writers, naturalists, scientists and artists serve the four themes. The accompanying scenic images range from a dramatic shot of penguins atop Antarctic icebergs to striking photos of waves of sand on arid Moroccan dunes, from a fisherman casting his line into a coral inlet in Indonesia to a graceful ballet of bottlenose dolphins in Peru and dusky gloom trapped amid rocky chambers in Arizona.
Mittermeier is committed and passionate in her belief that photography can influence the fate of nature. The images she has selected are lively and thought provoking--brilliant compositions bursting with vivid color and light. The impact of the photographs paired with profound words is bound to encourage others to find meaning, appreciation and a greater respect for a planet facing continued wildlife extinction, climate change and diminishing natural resources. --Kathleen Gerard, blogger at Reading Between the Lines