BOOK REVIEW—LET THERE BE WATER: ISRAEL’S SOLUTIONS FOR A WATER-STARVED WORLD BY SETH M. SIEGEL

Reviewed by Sara F. Dudley¹

What if I told you that a small, young , developing country in an arid environment was able to, within a decade, become water self-sufficient with a thriving agricultural sector, while facing the challenges of climate change, population growth (including absorbing immigrants) pollution and inflation? Would you be interested in learning about that country’s history, culture, laws and technological innovations, to see if those lessons could be applied to California? If so, then attorney Seth M. Siegel’s book, Let There Be Water: Israel’s Solutions for a Water-Starved World is well-worth your time. The first half of this book review summarizes Siegel’s research and findings. This is followed by a discussion of how California has already begun to apply these lessons.

The 337-page book is written for a general audience, with knowledge and interest in water law, technology and policy. Adding visual interest are 20 plates of color photos, as well as a chronology and index. Siegel’s research really shines in his use of first-source material. The book cites archival material from Israel and is based on his interviews with 180 people-the politicians, engineers, inventors and investors who made history happen. And where those individuals were no longer available, he spoke with their family and close associates. It is truly a work of both historical and legal significance.

ISRAEL’S WATER MIRACLE