A book of a broad natural history direction, in which the original teaching about the ecological functions of the biosphere and soil - the “shagreen skin of the Earth” - is presented in a fascinating form. The irreplaceable role of soil cover in the life and evolution of the planet and earthly civilization is shown. The effect of general natural laws in the life of the biosphere and humans is covered. The ways to save the soil, a planetary node of ecological connections, are shown. The problem of preserving human health and the environment is considered. For a wide range of readers - ecologists, soil scientists, geographers, agricultural and forestry workers, nature conservationists and everyone who cares about the fate of our Earth.