Books Like...
If you liked Crossing Open Ground, here are the top 4 books to read next:
- #1
Save:A beautifully written, introspective trek through the Himalayas - more about the author's spiritual search and observations than snow leopards. Deep and rewarding if you like travel-literature-meets-meditation, but not for everyone.
'The Snow Leopard' by Peter Matthiessen is a memoir that follows the author's personal journey into the remote Dolpo region of Nepal alongside naturalist George Schaller in search of the elusive snow leopard. The book intertwines the physical trek through the Himalayas with a spiritual exploration, delving into themes of nature, Buddhism, life, and death. Matthiessen's writing style is described as beautifully evocative and immersive, providing vivid descriptions of the landscapes, interactions with locals, and the internal reflections of the author.
Yesterday we walked for eleven hours of rough up-and-down, and this morning the delicate porter who plays fig-leaf music has disappeared. Jang-bu, the head Sherpa, replaces him in Gijan with an old Ma...1978•355 pages - #2
Save:A gorgeously written, deeply thoughtful exploration of nature, humanity, and the future - ideal for readers who love to be moved and challenged by prose as much as by ideas.
'Horizon' by Barry Lopez is a mesmerizing journey that spans across various landscapes and cultures, emphasizing the enchantment, respect, and marvel of all beings and things. Lopez's writing style is described as gentle, beautifully descriptive, and deeply personal, as he delves into global issues with a unique perspective. explores resilience in the face of harsh conditions, human irresponsibility, and evolutionary changes, while celebrating the interconnectedness of all living things.
The boy and I are leaning over a steel railing, staring into the sea. The sun is bright, but shade from a roof above us makes it possible to see clearly into the depths, to observe, quivering there, w...March 2019•593 pages A charming, funny, and insightful romp in the woods that delivers both laughs and lessons - ideal for explorers, nature lovers, and comedy fans alike. Just don’t expect a hardcore hiking manual or a flawless hero’s journey.
In "A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail," Bill Bryson recounts his humorous and informative journey hiking a significant portion of the 2100-mile Appalachian Trail with his out-of-shape friend Katz. Throughout the book, Bryson blends his witty humor, historical insights about the trail, U.S. Forestry Dept., and wildlife, and the challenges faced while embarking on such an ambitious trek. The narrative captures the essence of the Appalachian Trail, the people encountered along the way, and the dangers and beauty of the trail, all while maintaining a light-hearted and engaging tone.
A sign announced that this was no ordinary footpath, but the celebrated Appalachian Trail. Running more than 2,100 miles along America’s eastern seaboard, through the serene and beckoning Appalachian...1997•374 pages- #4
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
