Books matching: nature and environment
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- #1
Save: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 - #2
Save:A beautifully written, nature-rich novel that intertwines the lives of memorable characters and delivers a heartfelt message about our connection to the environment. Ideal for those who enjoy thoughtful, lyrical fiction - even if it sometimes wears its message on its sleeve.
"Prodigal Summer" by Barbara Kingsolver is a beautifully written novel that intertwines the lives of different women, each connected in subtle ways, much like the ecosystems they are part of. The book combines themes of ecology, romance, and nature seamlessly, with each character having a unique voice and depth. Kingsolver's storytelling weaves together three seemingly disparate stories, focusing on strong female characters and the interconnectedness of nature and human relationships.
Her body moved with the frankness that comes from solitary habits. But solitude is only a human presumption. Every quiet step is thunder to beetle life underfoot; every choice is a world made new for...2000•464 pages A 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.
March 2003•168 pages- #4
Save:A beautifully written, deeply thoughtful Caribbean epic that marries history, politics, and poetic imagination - not a light read, but a rewarding one for those who enjoy immersive literary fiction.
'El siglo de las luces' by Alejo Carpentier is an historical novel set during the French Revolution in the Caribbean. The story follows the career of French colonial administrator Victor Hugues and explores the impact of political ideologies on individuals. Through the eyes of two young middle class Cubans, Esteban and Sofia, the novel delves into themes of political commitment, historical change, and the complexities of human relationships in a tumultuous historical period. Carpentier's writing style combines lyrical passages with vivid descriptions of the Caribbean natural environment, incorporating elements of magical realism and philosophical musings on historical events.
1962•347 pages - #5
Save:A deeply moving, beautifully written exploration of tragedy and resilience – essential for fans of narrative nonfiction and anyone interested in the untamed power of nature. Highly recommended, with just a heads-up about some technical sections.
'Young Men and Fire' by Norman Maclean is a poignant retelling of the tragic 1949 Mann Gulch fire in Montana, where 13 young smokejumpers lost their lives. Maclean meticulously details the events of the fire, exploring every aspect and lesson learned. The book seamlessly weaves together the human drama of the young firefighters' bravery and sacrifice with the evolution of firefighting practices. While the writing is praised for its clarity and emotional depth, some readers found the later sections to be overly technical, delving into the mathematics of fire behavior.
IN 1949 THE SMOKEJUMPERS were not far from their origins as parachute jumpers turned stunt performers dropping from the wings of planes at county fairs just for the hell of it plus a few dollars, less...1992•337 pages - #6
Save:A dazzling, sometimes demanding modern classic - come for the gorgeous nature writing and philosophical marveling, but be prepared for deep dives and occasional literary tangents. Read it slowly to savor the view.
Pilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie Dillard is a collection of meditations on nature, spirituality, and the human experience. The book takes readers on a journey through the author's observations and reflections on the beauty and brutality of the natural world around Tinker Creek in Virginia. Dillard's writing style is described as poetic, introspective, and deeply insightful, as she delves into themes of wonder, awe, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
The book is a blend of personal narrative, philosophical musings, and detailed observations of the flora and fauna in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Dillard's prose is praised for its vivid imagery, lyrical quality, and ability to evoke a sense of reverence for the mysteries of the universe. Through her contemplations on nature, she invites readers to see the world through her eyes and find meaning in the intricate tapestry of life on Earth.
I used to have a cat, an old fighting tom, who would jump through the open window by my bed in the middle of the night and land on my chest. I’d half-awaken. He’d stick his skull under my nose and pur...January 1974•298 pages - #7
Save:A beautifully written, thought-provoking epic about trees, people, and our place in nature - essential for anyone interested in literary fiction or environmental issues, but it might feel sprawling or heavy-handed to some.
"The Overstory" by Richard Powers is a novel that intricately weaves together the lives of various characters who have a deep connection with trees. The book starts with seemingly disconnected short stories that gradually intertwine, highlighting the importance of trees and the impact they have on people's lives. The writing style shifts between individual character narratives and an overarching theme of environmental activism, creating a complex yet compelling storyline that explores the relationships between humans and nature.
The narrative of "The Overstory" delves into the interconnectedness of humanity and the natural world, particularly focusing on the significance of trees in shaping individual destinies and the collective fate of the planet. Through a mix of poetic language, overlapping storylines, and thought-provoking events, the book presents a powerful and emotional tale that challenges readers to rethink their perspectives on environmental conservation and the beauty of nature.
People are hurling stones at the giant trunks. The nuts fall all around them in a divine hail. It happens in countless places this Sunday, from Georgia to Maine. Up in Concord, Thoreau takes part. He...April 2018•524 pages - #8
Save:A sprawling, daring, and deeply crafted American classic - demanding but absolutely rewarding for those who stick with it.
'Sometimes a Great Notion' by Ken Kesey is a novel set in Oregon, focusing on the Stamper family, a rebellious clan of loggers living on the coast. The story revolves around the family's decision to not join a union strike, creating a bitter feud with the town of Wakonda. The book is known for its complex characters, shifting points of view, and detailed portrayal of the logging industry in the Pacific Northwest. Kesey's writing style is described as engaging, with scenes written from multiple perspectives simultaneously, providing a deep understanding of the characters and their actions.
Along the western slopes of the Oregon Coastal Range . . . come look: the hysterical crashing of tributaries as they merge into the Wakonda Auga River . . . The first little washes flashing like thick...1963•649 pages - #9
Save:Haunting, evocative, and emotional - a must-read for fans of atmospheric storytelling and resilient heroines, even if the story occasionally tiptoes into the unbelievable.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens is a captivating tale that follows the life of Kya, known as the Marsh Girl, who grows up alone in the marshlands of North Carolina. The story weaves between Kya's lonely childhood, her interactions with the townspeople, and a murder mystery that implicates her. The novel beautifully portrays Kya's deep connection to nature, her struggles with isolation, and her journey to find acceptance and love amidst suspicion and adversity. The plot alternates between past and present, building suspense and intrigue as the mysteries of Kya's life unfold, ultimately culminating in a satisfying and emotional resolution.
The writing style in Where the Crawdads Sing is praised for its lyrical and descriptive nature, painting vivid pictures of the marshlands and capturing the essence of Kya's solitary existence. The author, Delia Owens, skillfully incorporates themes of survival, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships, creating a story that is both poignant and engaging. The novel delves into Kya's growth from a young girl abandoned by her family to a strong, independent woman who navigates life's challenges with courage and grace.
Marsh is not swamp. Marsh is a space of light, where grass grows in water, and water flows into the sky. Slow-moving creeks wander, carrying the orb of the sun with them to the sea, and long-legged bi...February 2017•368 pages 'Manitous: The Spiritual World Of The Ojibway' by Basil Johnston is a collection of short stories that encapsulate the belief system of the Ojibwe Anishinabe people. The book is described as beautifully written, charming, and capable of instilling cultural values into readers of all ages. The stories are set in a family ambience, with realistic portrayals of rivalries and conflicts, even when themed on mythical creatures like mermaids and dwarves.
The book delves into Anishinaabe beliefs and traditions without unnecessary academic jargon, providing a fascinating look at their myths and moral teachings. It is praised for its humor, drama, heartbreak, and life lessons embedded within the stories, covering topics from biblical creation to monsters and mermaids. Johnston skillfully assembles stories from the oral traditions of his people, offering readers a valuable glimpse into a rich culture little recognized by mainstream society.
1995•271 pages
