Review of Diana Davis' book on the history of arid lands

What is it about?

The book provides a historical account of the desertification narrative and the interests it has served from early in the colonial period until today.

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Why is it important?

This is a powerful book and an excellent critique of colonial and present policies in drylands and other pastoral areas. Such academic contributions may in the long term help change perceptions of drylands and its peoples and eventually lead to more people-friendly policies that build on indigenous knowledge instead of working against it.