The Underworld: Journeys to the Depths of the Ocean

Susan Casey first came to my attention when a man in our book club suggested we read The Wave. Who knew a book about surfing, a sport I know nothing about, could be so compelling?

I thought The Wave was very good, and The Underworld is even better. Somehow I had the idea that the ocean depths were... well, empty. Wrong. Not only are the ocean depths not empty, but they contain forms of life that are novel and unique to the depths.

Scientists do not know much about the depths—it is very difficult for humans to visit the deepest parts of the oceans—and Casey urges us to put off proposed mining ventures until more can be known about these parts of the world.

I loved reading about the explorers of the ocean floor. I think I might be a Susan Casey fan.