Books matching: indigenous knowledge
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A soul-nourishing blend of story, science, and wisdom - Braiding Sweetgrass invites us to see nature as a gift and challenges us to rebuild our connection with the earth. Read it for inspiration, perspective, and a gentler vision for our shared future.
'Braiding Sweetgrass' by Robin Wall Kimmerer is a blend of indigenous wisdom and scientific knowledge, focusing on the interconnectedness between nature, culture, and humanity. Through a series of essays or stories, Kimmerer shares her personal journey as a Potawatomi person and a biology professor, exploring themes of reciprocity, gratitude, and sustainability. Her writing style is described as poetic, reflective, and meditative, offering a unique perspective on environmentalism and indigenous philosophy.
Hurtling downward, she saw only dark water below. But in that emptiness there were many eyes gazing up at the sudden shaft of light. They saw there a small object, a mere dust mote in the beam. As it...September 2013•400 pages Bold, mind-expanding, and infuriating in equal measure - "The Cosmic Serpent" will challenge your perspectives and spark your imagination, but you’ll need an open mind and a tolerance for leaps of logic.
'The Cosmic Serpent, DNA and the Origins of Knowledge' by Jeremy Narby delves into the possible connection between shamanism and molecular biology, exploring the idea that shamans, through the use of hallucinogenic substances like ayahuasca, can access information at the molecular level, particularly DNA. Narby shares his journey of researching indigenous Amazonian peoples and their deep understanding of biochemical and neurological information, shedding light on the intersection of spirituality, shamanism, anthropology, and biological sciences. presents a thought-provoking narrative that challenges traditional scientific views and offers a unique perspective on the origins of knowledge.
The first time an Ashaninca man told me that he had learned the medicinal properties of plants by drinking a hallucinogenic brew, I thought he was joking. We were in the forest squatting next to a bus...1998•266 pagesA unique, poetic, and deeply insightful look at moss and the hidden wonders of the natural world - perfect for fans of nature writing and anyone ready to be enchanted by the small and the overlooked.
In "Gathering Moss: A Natural and Cultural History of Mosses" by Robin Wall Kimmerer, the author beautifully intertwines science and personal reflection to explore the elegantly simple lives of mosses. Kimmerer leads readers through a series of linked personal essays, sharing her experiences as a scientist, mother, and Native American to shed light on the biology and cultural significance of mosses. Through her lyrical prose and unique storytelling, Kimmerer delves into the interconnectedness of mosses with the natural world, inviting readers to learn from these fascinating organisms and indigenous ways of knowing.
The Standing Stones Barefoot, I’ve walked this path by night for nearly twenty years, most of my life it seems, the earth pressing up against the arch of my foot. More often than not, I leave my flash...March 2003•168 pagesA refreshingly original, provocative, and enlightening read - Sand Talk invites you to see the world with new eyes. It rewards patient readers with wisdom, humor, and a whole new perspective. Highly recommended for anyone curious about Indigenous thinking and our relationship with the earth.
Sand Talk: How Indigenous Thinking Can Save the World is a thought-provoking non-fiction book by Tyson Yunkaporta that explores Indigenous perspectives and ways of understanding the world. Through storytelling and sand drawings, Yunkaporta conveys complex social and ecological theories while encouraging readers to foster a reciprocal relationship with the land. The book contrasts Western thought with Aboriginal insights, highlighting the importance of care for the Earth and the interconnectedness of cultures.
Yunkaporta's writing is engaging and often humorous, making challenging concepts accessible to a broad audience. He invites readers to rethink their perceptions of life and society, emphasizing the value of Indigenous knowledge in creating solutions to modern problems. Each chapter serves as a conversation, blending lyrical beauty with critical analysis, ultimately aiming to inspire a deeper awareness of our roles as custodians of the planet.
May 2020•241 pages- #5
A heartfelt, Indigenous-powered fantasy adventure reminiscent of Narnia, The Barren Grounds is a wonderful journey for readers of all ages - just be patient with the slow-burning start!
In "The Barren Grounds," Morgan and Eli, two foster kids, embark on an adventure in a magical land called Misewa. They meet Ochek, a fisher, and encounter talking animals like bears, owls, and foxes. The trio sets out to retrieve the summer birds stolen by the Man to bring back the Green Time and end the eternal winter in Misewa. The book blends fantasy, adventure, indigenous knowledge, and drama, providing a unique and immersive reading experience. Through engaging characters and an intriguing storyline, author David A. Robertson creates a world reminiscent of Narnia but with a distinct Indigenous perspective.
At its core, "The Barren Grounds" is a story of self-discovery, particularly focusing on Morgan's journey from anger and disconnection to finding love and acceptance. The book weaves traditional Indigenous stories of the sky and constellations into the narrative, adding depth and cultural richness to the plot. With relatable characters, life lessons, and endless cliffhangers, this middle-grade fantasy novel offers a compelling read for both younger and adult audiences.
Morgan’s head was pressed against her pillow. The alarm on her phone had just been snoozed again, and her plan to leave early for school was slipping away each time she reached forward with a groggy h...September 2020•266 pages - #6
Not your typical end-of-the-world tale! Lyrical, quirky, and layered with myth, 'Trinity Sight' is a memorable adventure - though its strangeness and ambiguity may leave some readers baffled.
Trinity Sight by Jennifer Givhan is a post-apocalyptic horror story that follows Calliope, a Ph.D. archaeologist who embarks on a journey with a diverse group of characters, including a Native American physicist named Chance Guardian, in search of her missing family after a cataclysmic event. The book delves into themes of parallel worlds, indigenous knowledge, and the blending of science and folklore, all wrapped in a gripping narrative that combines striking poetic descriptions with a roller coaster ride of emotions.
October 2019•300 pages - #7
A bold, mind-bending mystery perfect for readers who relish enigmatic plots and don’t mind wandering in the fog - just don’t expect all your questions to be answered.
The Calcutta Chromosome by Amitav Ghosh is a blend of mystery, science fiction, and thriller genres, delving into the history of malaria research in British Colonial India. The plot follows Antar, a computer operator, as he uncovers a conspiracy theory surrounding the discovery of the malaria bug's life cycle by Dr. Ronald Ross in 1898. The narrative spans different timelines and locations, including New York City and Calcutta, weaving together elements of science, mythology, and Indian traditions.
The book is praised for its intricate plot, unique storytelling approach, and the author's ability to merge science with thriller elements seamlessly. Readers are taken on a captivating journey through time and space, exploring themes of science vs. counterscience, mystery, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.
IF THE SYSTEM hadn’t stalled Antar would never have guessed that the scrap of paper on his screen was the remnant of an ID card. It looked as though it had been rescued from a fire: its plastic lamina...1996•317 pages - #8
A powerful, haunting classic of environmental writing - essential for fans of nature books, but be prepared: it doesn’t pull any punches.
"A Whale for the Killing" by Farley Mowat is a powerful narrative that sheds light on the appalling behavior of humans towards animals. The story revolves around a small community in Nova Scotia that uses a trapped female fin whale and its calf for sport, leading to their agonizing deaths. delves into how people can revert to instinctive behavior and disregard the feelings of other creatures, drawing parallels to William Golding's "Lord of the Flies." Farley Mowat's writing style captivates readers by portraying the destructive impact of human actions on nature and the struggle for survival in the face of cruelty.
. Harried by a furi- ous nor'easter, eddies of sand-sharp snow beat against the town of Port Aux Basques; an unlovely cluster of wooden buildings sprawled across a bed of cold rock and colder muskeg...1972•247 pages - #9
An epic, thoroughly researched, and often entertaining account of Arctic exploration - long, sometimes dense, but a definitive (and very human) journey through one of history’s coldest quests.
The Arctic Grail by Pierre Berton is a comprehensive account of Arctic exploration, focusing on the quest for the Northwest Passage and the North Pole from 1818 to 1909. The book chronicles the major expeditions of the era, highlighting the tragic Franklin Expedition and the rivalry between explorers like Peary and Cook. Berton explores the motivations behind these perilous journeys, including nationalism, scientific ambition, and personal glory, while detailing the harsh realities faced by the explorers such as extreme cold, starvation, and the failure to learn from indigenous knowledge.
Berton's writing style is engaging and well-researched, allowing readers to connect with the personalities and struggles of the Arctic explorers. His narrative is rich with detail and historical context, making it accessible even for those new to the topic. Although the book is lengthy at 650 pages, it is praised for being readable and immersive. The intricate depiction of characters and their experiences gives the account depth, ensuring it remains a vital work for anyone interested in Arctic exploration.
In the published memoirs of that stubborn and often maddening Arctic explorer Sir John Ross, there is a remarkable illustration of an encounter that took place on August 10, 1818, between two British...1988•672 pages Billy Griffiths' book 'Deep Time Dreaming: Uncovering Ancient Australia' delves into the history of the oldest continuous civilization in the world, offering a different perspective on Australian First Nation peoples. Through archaeological discoveries and cultural insights, the book explores the complex relationship between Indigenous Australians and the land over thousands of years. Griffiths showcases the evolution of attitudes towards Aboriginal people in the field of archaeology, highlighting the ongoing struggle for recognition and respect.
February 2018•423 pages










