David Owen

David Owen is an American journalist and author known for his extensive writing on environmental issues, golf, and various aspects of modern life. His work regularly appears in The New Yorker, where he has been a staff writer since 1991. Owen's environmental books include "Green Metropolis" (2009) and "The Conundrum" (2012), which challenge conventional wisdom about sustainability and urban living. His 2017 book "Where the Water Goes" examines the Colorado River system and water usage in the American West. Beyond environmental topics, Owen has written influential books about golf, including "The Making of the Masters" (1999) and "The First National Bank of Dad" (2003). His work often combines detailed research with personal observations and historical context. Owen's writing style employs careful analysis and sometimes counterintuitive arguments, particularly when discussing environmental issues. His articles and books have contributed significantly to public discourse about urban planning, conservation, and the complexities of environmental protection in modern society.

Readers appreciate Owen's ability to present complex environmental topics through clear explanations and unexpected perspectives. His contrarian takes on sustainability and urban density generate discussion in reader reviews. What readers liked: - Clear writing style that makes technical subjects accessible - Research depth and attention to detail - Personal anecdotes mixed with factual analysis - Fresh angles on environmental issues that challenge assumptions What readers disliked: - Some find his arguments overly simplistic or selective with evidence - Writing can be dry or academic at times - Critics note he sometimes stretches analogies too far - Environmental solutions proposed are viewed by some as impractical Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: - Green Metropolis: 3.9/5 (2,100+ ratings) - The Conundrum: 3.7/5 (1,200+ ratings) - Where the Water Goes: 4.0/5 (1,400+ ratings) Amazon: - Average 4.2/5 across titles - Reviewers frequently note "thought-provoking" content and "clear explanations"

High School (1987) A teenage boy navigates the social and academic landscape of an elite New England prep school during the late 1960s.

The Making of the Masters (1999) A historical examination of the Augusta National Golf Club and the development of the Masters Tournament.

The First National Bank of Dad (2003) A guide to teaching children about money management through a home-based banking system.

Hit & Hope (2003) A collection of essays about golf, focusing on the author's experiences and observations of the sport.

Copies in Seconds (2004) The story of Chester Carlson's invention of xerography and the birth of the modern photocopying industry.

Sheetrock & Shellac (2006) A personal account of home renovation projects and the relationship between homeowners and contractors.

Green Metropolis (2009) An analysis of New York City's environmental efficiency and why dense urban living can be more sustainable than rural life.

The Conundrum (2012) An examination of how technological efficiency improvements often lead to increased resource consumption.

Where the Water Goes (2017) An exploration of the Colorado River system and its complex water rights and environmental challenges.

Volume Control (2019) An investigation into hearing loss, noise pollution, and the science of human auditory systems.

Malcolm Gladwell writes about social science, psychology, and human behavior with a focus on counterintuitive findings. His books examine everyday phenomena through research and data, similar to Owen's analytical approach.

Michael Lewis investigates complex topics in business, sports, and economics by following key personalities involved in major changes. He breaks down technical subjects into narrative-driven explanations like Owen does with environmental issues.

Elizabeth Kolbert reports on environmental and scientific topics with a focus on human impact on nature. She combines field research with historical context in her examination of climate change and extinction.

Charles C. Mann explores how human civilization has shaped our world through agriculture, commerce, and technology. His work connects historical developments to contemporary challenges in ways that mirror Owen's treatment of environmental topics.

John McPhee writes detailed accounts of specific places, industries, and natural phenomena through immersive reporting. His books combine scientific detail with personal observations from experts and practitioners in each field.