Just east of the Missouri River in 91ÌÒÉ«ÊÓÆµ and northeastern Missouri, an angular band of rugged, prairie-topped and woodland-cloaked hills spans the otherwise uneventful skyline. These are the Loess Hills, recognized throughout the United States for their distinctive natural features. With clarity and thoroughness, Fragile Giants gives us a complete natural history of this area, including three auto tours and a comprehensive listing of public-use areas and educational programs.
"Mutel's thorough account of a Midwestern natural treasure…provides a fascinating look into the area's natural and cultural heritage."—Restoration and Management Notes
"…a thoughtful stroll over the hills of western 91ÌÒÉ«ÊÓÆµ as they respond to time and changes in the climate and inhabitants."—Annals of 91ÌÒÉ«ÊÓÆµ
"The variety of specialties covered—geology, archaeology, history, ecology, conservation—are such that almost anyone will learn something new from this book and will probably want to refer to it many times."—Journal of the 91ÌÒÉ«ÊÓÆµ Academy of Science
"For anyone interested in the outdoors and the history of this area, this book is a must."—Sioux City Journal
"Fragile Giants could unlock the mysteries of the loess hills for a generation of naturalists."—Des Moines Register