Sustainable Bookshelf Volume VIII
By Raine Raynor
A book can be a great companion for snowy winter days, especially when it deepens your connection to our one and only planet.
In this volume of Sustainable Bookshelf, we’re highlighting a fantastic selection of books that inspire us to lead happier, healthier and more eco-friendly lives. These recommendations, which include fiction, nonfiction, memoir and essays, come from our friends at locally owned Longfellow Books, as well as our editorial team. Get ready to explore the glistening world of rivers, follow a woman’s journey to enrich her garden’s biodiversity, and gain a deeper understanding of humans’ role in a potential mass extinction.
GHM: selected by Green & Healthy Maine editors | LB: recommended by Longfellow Books
Carbon: The Book of Life by Paul Hawken
Nonfiction
In this enlightening book, Paul Hawken explores life through the lens of carbon: from intricate fungi networks to the cells that make up our bodies. Carbon highlights innovative solutions to combat climate change through an optimistic, action-oriented approach that emphasizes the collective power individuals, businesses and communities share in making a difference. The book is well-researched, engaging and filled with inspiring stories of environmental progress. It encourages hope and responsibility, making complex topics accessible and motivating readers to participate in creating a sustainable future. –LB
Is a River Alive? by Robert Macfarlane
Nonfiction
This beautifully written and insightful book vividly captures the wonder and vitality of rivers. Macfarlane’s poetic prose and deep respect for nature makes this a compelling read for anyone interested in the life that thrives within rivers. The book takes readers on a journey to the cloud-forests of Ecuador, the wounded creeks and lagoons of India, and the wild rivers of Canada, inspiring readers to appreciate the importance of preserving these vital water ecosystems. It’s an engaging and educational read that beautifully blends science and storytelling to encourage a heartfelt connection with nature. A highly recommended book for nature lovers and curious minds alike. –LB
The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of Our Most Essential Native Trees by Douglas W. Tallamy
Nonfiction
“No other tree genus supports so much life,” writes ecologist Doug Tallamy in this informative deep dive into the seasonal cycles of life, death and renewal happening in our own backyards. From woodpeckers to jewel caterpillars to fungi, Tallamy illuminates the incredible biodiversity that oaks support, plus their major role in air and water purification. With chapters organized by month, this inspiring book can be digested in one sitting or followed over the course of the year. A fascinating read that inspires a deeper appreciation for oaks and shares practical tips on caring for these majestic trees. –GHM
North Woods by Daniel Mason
Historical Fiction
Set in Western Massachusetts, this sprawling novel centers on a patch of woods and the people and animals who call it home over the centuries. A series of short, interconnected stories weave together a vivid and enchanting view of the natural world, while the elegiac storytelling conveys a profound sense of the biodiversity New England has lost. The beautiful writing and immersive setting close to home will inspire readers to slow down and view their yards through new eyes. –GHM
Playground by Richard Powers
Science Fiction
A small island in French Polynesia is the setting for Powers’ expansive novel exploring the relationship between humans, technology and the environment. On Makatea Island, local residents must vote whether to greenlight an American proposal to rebuild the island as a floating city. Four characters’ stories intertwine around this decision, culminating in a magnificent twist. The panoramic storytelling and awe-inspiring descriptions of undersea life will resonate with readers who enjoy complex narratives rooted in a love for nature. –GHM
The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Nonfiction
“All flourishing is mutual,” writes Indigenous scientist Robin Wall Kimmerer in her newest book, The Serviceberry, which envisions a regenerative and more sustainable future through the gift economy. This short yet impactful read examines how the humble serviceberry—a tree native to temperate North America—embodies reciprocity, interconnectedness and gratitude by sharing its abundant berries with birds, humans and the rest of the natural world. Highly recommended for nature-lovers seeking a hopeful and inspiring read. –GHM
The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History by Elizabeth Kolbert
Young Adult Nonfiction
This YA adaptation of The Sixth Extinction by Elizabeth Kolbert beautifully combines science and storytelling in a way that is accessible and engaging for young readers. Kolbert’s investigative approach and vivid examples of species facing extinction— including the Panamanian golden frog, staghorn coral and great auk—shed light on the urgent issue of mass extinction caused by human activity. Perfect for students and young eco-enthusiasts, this is an important read that inspires both awareness and action and kindles hope for positive change. –LB
Soil: The Story of a Black Mother’s Garden by Camille T. Dungy
Memoir
In this poetic and hopeful memoir, Dungy reflects on identity, family and culture through the lens of her garden in Colorado. Across essays, poems and illustrations, Soil chronicles Dungy’s seven-year odyssey to diversify her garden, defying strict neighborhood guidelines on what residents could plant. The garden and its plants symbolize how homogeneity threatens the future of our planet—and how cultivating diversity is the best means of protecting our environment. The slow, gentle pace of this book parallels the care Dungy pours into her garden and gives readers opportunities to savor the beautiful prose. Recommended for gardeners and anyone looking to enrich their relationship with the flora surrounding them. –GHM
The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming by David Wallace-Wells
Nonfiction
In this travelogue of the near future, Wallace-Wells offers a stark, urgent warning about climate change. With vivid and unflinching descriptions, the book explores the catastrophic impacts of environmental neglect, including rising sea levels, extreme weather, declining biodiversity and the climate refugee crisis. Wallace-Wells combines scientific facts with a compelling narrative to highlight the risks humanity faces if current trends continue. While challenging to read, The Uninhabitable Earth serves as an essential wake-up call that climate change is not in some distant future; it’s happening now, demanding immediate action. A vital, eye-opening read for anyone concerned about our planet’s future. –LB
World Without End: Essays on Apocalypse and After by Martha Park
Essays
In this captivating essay collection, Memphis-native Martha Park explores the intersections of faith, motherhood and the climate crisis across the South. Park’s storytelling is vivid and compelling, immersing readers in characters’ lives and struggles. Her lyrical prose and heartfelt themes about hope, resilience and human connection make for a thought-provoking, inspiring read. Highly recommended for anyone who loves well written, emotionally resonant stories. –LB.
