This little book isn't very in-depth, but it really does succeed in communicating that sense of wonder that so often accompanies science. As a young boy in Peru, Ruzo heard stories from his grandfather about a mysterious boiling river somewhere in the depths of the Amazon. As an adult, and a geologist, he went looking for it, hoping that the legend had some basis in reality. It turns out that not only did the river exist, but that it wasn't exactly a secret. It wasn't well-known, but it wasn't lost either... although arguably, that lack of popular recognition acted as some measure of protection. The river has the potential to become a massive tourist trap, after all, and while the appeal of it might also contribute to its conservation, Ruzo is careful to communicate the need for balance, and for tourists and researchers to remain respectful both of the river itself and the community that has built up around it.

It's an appealing short memoir, and I can see it being one of those books that encourages people who are not perhaps very interested in science to take a second look. It's more adventure than anything else - a sort of geological taster - and if that can inspire readers to find science more appealing then I for one am all for it.