Living Downstream An Ecologist's Personal Investigation of Cancer and the Environment

The first edition of Living Downstream an exquisite blend of precise science and engaging narrative set a new standard for scientific writing. Poet, biologist, and cancer survivor, Steingraber uses all three kinds of experience to investigate the links between cancer and environmental toxins.

The updated science in this exciting new edition strengthens the case for banning poisons now pervasive in our air, our food, and our bodies. Because synthetic chemicals linked to cancer come mostly from petroleum and coal, Steingraber shows that investing in green energy also helps prevent cancer. Saving the planet becomes a matter of saving ourselves and an issue of human rights. A documentary film based on the book will coincide with publication.

‘’Steingraber’s ability to meld literary prose with complex scientific information has made her a best selling author. Like her hero Rachel Carson, whose 1962 book Silent Spring led to the ban on the pesticide DDT and kick started the grass roots environmental movement, Steingraber somehow finds language beautiful and compelling enough to seduce readers to sit through a science lesson.’’-The Sun, January 2009

‘’Jeff Cohen, director of the Park Center for Independent Media, said that Steingraber’s expertise in writing and biology as well as her personal experience created an unbelievable combination. ‘What she’s brilliant at almost in a league of her own is mixing personal passionate stories with totally comprehensive and accurate science,’ he said. ‘It’s not easy to do, it’s not easy to make complex scientific issues interesting, but no one does it better than Sandra Steingraber.’’-The Ithacan, 2/12/10