Life Above the Jungle Floor

by Donald Perry

The author describes his experiences observing the complex ecological system over a hundred feet above the jungle floor of Costa Rica, and looks at its role in the evolution of life

Genres: Science, Nonfiction

170 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1986

Reviews

[Out of the Bex · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely a book for the scientifically minded.

I have a degree in biology, so this one made a lot of sense for me. Though I do not know how someone without any history in that field would feel about it. He does spend a great deal of time writing in a sort of "scientist-speak" that might be a tad difficult for people.

I recently reread this in preparation for my NonFiction Friday series on YT. In that video, I shared Perry's story about finding a hollow cavern tree in Costa Rica. If you're curious: https://youtu.be/BRY1upyD304

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating book about life in the jungle canopy, the author's adventures in Costa Rica, and some wonderful photographs of rarely seen plants and animals. A little spoiled by a preachy ending, but a great chapter about prehistoric jungles. Really a fun book that I think most would enjoy.

[Rhonda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great info about life in the canopy of a Costa Rican rainforest. Writen by the first scientist pioneer of tree climbing canopy research. Has lots of scientific lingo which not everyone will enjoy/understand.

[David · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read following a trip to Costa Rica, where we experienced just what the book talks about. The author is a biologist (and an aerial tram guy). His account of rain forest canopy exploration is interesting but occasionally a strange mix -- lots of theory and philosophy. But good!

[Felix Willenburg · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the majority of this book.... the parts with actual research notes. the end was a let down. why write the book in a wondering tone only to conclude by saying its all going to be ruined and that we as a species are unfit to preserve our home? could have been done much better, especially if the writer was looking to ignite new minds into environmental activists. calling people monkeys and telling them they can only hope to destroy isn't exactly a call to arms.