If read as a series of essays, with no intent of an overarching argument or thesis, this book is entertaining. Newman has a knack for giving a quick overview of history, and summarizing the larger ideas linked to one event or consequence, which makes you feel you have a solid grasp on things within only a few paragraphs. However, that very ability makes the books feel flighty and random. It’s not obvious why she chose any particular animal or plant other than she happened to think of it, and despite mentions of consequences and potential solutions, she’s moving on to the next idea before it feels like she’s made any conclusions. It makes for a book that is entertaining and informative that still feels superficial. I’d still recommend it as a good pick if you’re in the mood for nonfiction but don’t want anything too dense.