The southeastern third of Ohio is quite different from the flat or gently rolling portions of the state, differing in landscape, geologic history, ecology, and human history. It is the deeply dissected hill country that was formed over many millions of years by sediments eroded from four ancient mountain ranges. Continuing erosion and massive runoff from great ice-age glaciers further shaped the land and its drainage systems.

In Ohio Hill Country, author Carolyn Platt describes how plant and animal life evolved to fill the many niches and microclimates afforded by the...