Ecosystems: A Delicate Balance examines how all living beings form and are part of ecosystems, and how important it is to maintain that balance. Balance in an ecosystem is the equilibrium that exists when the needs of all living things are being met and conditions remain the same for long periods of time. Because everything in an ecosystem contributes something, changes to species, climate, or physical features can destroy the balance and significantly change the ecosystem. By looking at how an ecosystem works viewers will have a basic understanding of its complex interdependence, and how essential it is to maintain balance to avoid a destructive chain reaction.
Since Ecosystems is meant to be light reading, the layout of the book places the focus on gorgeous photography of earth and the species living in it. Using the idea of interconnection, the binding of the book is a unique non-adhesive binding pattern. The hand-weaving of the thread laces the front and back covers to the spine, giving it a touch of humanity and allowing the book to lay completely flat for easy reading. The color palette of the illustrations on each chapter opener is restrained so it doesn't compete with the full-color photography.
For some spreads with full bleeds, big and bold words used to describe the image are centered on the pages, which adds contrast against the quieter pages. The interaction between all of the design elements allow the book to function as a unit, just as the whole earth's surface can be described by a series of interconnected ecosystems.
Since Ecosystems is meant to be light reading, the layout of the book places the focus on gorgeous photography of earth and the species living in it. Using the idea of interconnection, the binding of the book is a unique non-adhesive binding pattern. The hand-weaving of the thread laces the front and back covers to the spine, giving it a touch of humanity and allowing the book to lay completely flat for easy reading. The color palette of the illustrations on each chapter opener is restrained so it doesn't compete with the full-color photography.
For some spreads with full bleeds, big and bold words used to describe the image are centered on the pages, which adds contrast against the quieter pages. The interaction between all of the design elements allow the book to function as a unit, just as the whole earth's surface can be described by a series of interconnected ecosystems.
