Top Eco-Friendly Literature on Sustainability and Nature Ideal for Summer Reading
Recommended Reading: Books That Celebrate Nature and Sustainability
Summer is here, and what better way to reconnect with nature than through a good book? Here are some top recommendations that delve into the beauty of the natural world, the importance of sustainability, and the interconnectedness of humans and the environment.
1. "Fathoms: The World in the Whale" by Rebecca Giggs (2020)
This captivating book explores the enigmatic world of whales, shedding light on their role in understanding life and ecological change. Giggs takes readers on a journey beneath the waves, revealing the hidden depths of these magnificent creatures and their impact on our planet.
2. "Losing Eden: Why Our Minds Need the Wild" by Lucy Jones (2020)
In this thought-provoking read, Jones delves into the emotional and scientific aspects of our connection with nature. She argues that our well-being is intrinsically linked to the natural world, and that reconnecting with it is essential for our mental health.
3. "Wild Souls: Freedom and Flourishing in the Non-Human World" by Emma Marris (2021)
Marris's book offers insights into the interconnectedness of animals and humans, and the importance of sustainability and justice in the non-human world. It's a must-read for those seeking a deeper understanding of our place in the natural world.
Conservation-Focused Picks
For those interested in practical conservation, Douglas W. Tallamy's "Nature’s Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation That Starts in Your Yard" (2019) is a standout. This book advocates grassroots conservation by transforming personal yards into habitats that support wildlife and sustainability, offering a practical guide for environmental stewardship at home.
Another compelling read is "The Future We Choose: The Stubborn Optimist’s Guide to the Climate Crisis" by Christiana Figueres and Tom Rivett-Carnac (2020). This book presents two future scenarios depending on climate action success and inspires readers to engage in optimistic and determined efforts to combat the climate crisis.
Speculative Fiction and Environmental Histories
For those who prefer a more speculative approach, "Onward: Climate Fiction to Inspire Hope" edited by Nora Shalaway Carpenter (2026) is an anthology of 16 short stories exploring the climate crisis through speculative and realistic fiction, emphasising small actions toward sustainability and hope.
"Salmon: A Fish, the Earth, and the History of Their Common Fate" by Mark Kurlansky (2020) is a multi-century environmental narrative that intertwines the life of salmon with ecological history, showing the interdependence of nature and human impact.
Nature in Our Backyards
Two more books worth mentioning are "The Comfort of Crows: A Backyard Year" by Margaret Renkl (2023) and "Entangled Life: How Fungi Make Our Worlds, Change Our Minds and Shape Our Futures" by Merlin Sheldrake (2020).
"The Comfort of Crows" is a 52-chapter book that showcases the plants and creatures in the author's backyard over the course of a year, and the power of nature in our lives. "Entangled Life" showcases the power and importance of fungi in our natural world.
These selections cover a range of perspectives—from grassroots conservation and hopeful climate futures to the ecological histories that reveal our connection with nature—helping readers deepen their understanding and motivation for sustainability efforts. Happy reading!
[1] Source: The Guardian
[2] Source: NPR
[3] Source: Bookriot
[4] Source: The New York Times
Here are the two sentences that contain the given words:
- For those who appreciate the interplay of lifestyle and nature, "The Comfort of Crows: A Backyard Year" by Margaret Renkl (2023) offers insights into the beauty of plants and creatures in our homes and gardens.
- If you're interested in the latest fashion-and-beauty trends, pairing eco-friendly choices with your home-and-garden design could make for a unique and sustainable blend of style. For inspiration, consider Douglas W. Tallamy's "Nature’s Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation That Starts in Your Yard" (2019), which showcases how your personal space can contribute to a thriving environment.
