6+ Favorite Books on Environmental Philosophy (So Far!)

Here is a roundup of my favorite books on environmental philosophy (so far!). I hope you find something interesting & a little different.

Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey
$12.11

In Desert Solitaire, Edward Abbey shares his reflections as a park ranger in Arches National Park, passionately advocating for the preservation of America’s untouched wilderness. The book beautifully captures the contrast between nature and mainstream culture, urging readers to appreciate the wild and its essential role in our lives. I found Abbey's writing to be both poetic and striking; he really nails the need for less urban sprawl and more connection to nature. However, he can come off a bit rough around the edges, and while he understands conservation deeply, he seems to overlook the political compromises involved. Overall, it's a compelling read for nature lovers.
Pros:
Beautiful and lyrical writing
Strong defense of wilderness preservation
Rich metaphorical imagery throughout the text
Cons:
The author is rough around the edges
Lacks understanding of political compromises in conservation
No other cons.
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10/07/2025 07:01 am GMT
Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold
$29.41

In Sand County Almanac, Aldo Leopold explores the relationship between humans and the environment, a topic that still feels incredibly relevant today. The review emphasizes how, despite tremendous progress in environmental ethics since the book's publication nearly 70 years ago, we still grapple with complex issues like pollution and land use. It’s inspiring to see how much has changed, yet disheartening that many challenges persist. The writing is engaging and lyrical, making it an enjoyable read. I wholeheartedly recommend it, especially alongside other works that provide context to Leopold's ideas.
Pros:
The book has had a significant impact on environmental thinking in America.
It feels incredibly current despite being nearly 70 years old.
It's lyrical, beautiful, and fun to read.
It provides insight into historical environmental movements and changes.
The book encourages ownership and responsibility towards land and the environment.
Cons:
There are no cons.
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10/07/2025 08:01 am GMT
Ecology of a Cracker Childhood by Janisse
$10.21

In Ecology of a Cracker Childhood, Janisse Ray shares her upbringing in rural Georgia, blending personal stories with the natural history of the vanishing longleaf pine forests. The writing feels warm and informative, as Ray reflects on her childhood and the environmental activism it sparked within her. I loved how the book captures the spirit of a time when the South was shifting from agrarian roots to modernity, and it really resonated with my own family's history. Ecology of a Cracker Childhood by Janisse Ray is a book I wish that I had read years ago. Such a good book on multiple levels, but especially as a Georgian with parents & relatives who grew up in this exact era.
Pros:
The memoir beautifully interweaves family history with natural history.
The language is colloquial, elegiac, and informative.
It inspires readers to embrace their humble beginnings and fight for their beloved places.
Cons:
Nothing - the book is a classic for a reason.
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10/06/2025 11:03 pm GMT
The Overstory by Richard Powers
$16.89

In Richard Powers' novel, The Overstory, the focus is on the deep connection between humans and trees, following the lives of nine Americans as they come together to combat deforestation. The book raises important questions about our tendency to prioritize growth over preservation, highlighting flaws in human nature. I loved Powers' beautiful, lyrical writing, which brings trees to life as unique characters. However, I found the multitude of characters and their intertwined stories a bit overwhelming, and it took a while for the plot to truly engage me. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read with a powerful message about environmentalism.
Pros:
Lovely, lyrical writing.
Engaging exploration of human-tree relationships.
Thought-provoking themes on deforestation and environmentalism.
Cons:
Too many characters and overlapping stories.
Takes a long time to get going.
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10/06/2025 08:02 pm GMT
Silent Spring Revolution by Douglas Brinkley
$16.17

In Silent Spring Revolution, Douglas Brinkley explores the surge of environmental activism from 1960 to 1973, spotlighting key figures like Rachel Carson and political leaders including JFK, Johnson, and Nixon. I found the book incredibly insightful, showcasing how the era’s struggles laid the groundwork for today’s environmental issues. Brinkley connects past events to our current challenges, making it feel relevant and urgent. The detailed accounts of significant events and the mechanics of environmental politics really struck me. Honestly, I loved everything about it—it's a dense read, but so engaging that I couldn't put it down.
Pros:
Meticulously researched and well-written chronicle of environmental activism
Highlights significant historical figures and events
Offers relevant insights into contemporary political issues
Provides context for the lived experiences of Americans in the 1950s and 1960s
Explores the mechanics of environmental politics and coalition building
Emphasizes America's dual role in environmental damage and leadership
Cons:
Nothing!
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10/07/2025 01:01 pm GMT
Ministry For The Future by Kim Stanley Robinson
$2.99

In Ministry for the Future, Kim Stanley Robinson tackles the pressing issue of climate change through the lens of an international organization led by Mary Murphy, an Irish diplomat. The story is told in a mix of short chapters that shift between Mary and Frank, an American aid worker, along with various other perspectives that explore crucial themes of ecology and economics. I found it incredibly relevant, capturing the unsettling reality of our warming planet while offering a hopeful view of innovation and collaboration. Sure, it can get a bit earnest, but overall, it lived up to the hype and is a must-read for anyone concerned about our future.
Pros:
Highly relevant to current global issues
Captures the weirdness and challenges of climate change
Short, concise chapters make it very readable
Prime example of science fiction's potential
Lives up to the hype
Cons:
The book is a bit earnest
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10/06/2025 08:00 pm GMT
How to Do Nothing by Jenny Odell
$11.08

In How to Do Nothing, Jenny Odell tackles the overwhelming pressures of our nonstop work culture and champions the idea that stepping back can actually boost our effectiveness. I found her arguments about the benefits of reflection and disconnecting from constant productivity compelling. The book highlights our relationship with technology and nature, urging us to reconnect with our surroundings and our curiosity. While I loved the concept and thought it resonated with many of our unspoken feelings, I also felt a bit conflicted. At times, it seemed like just another task on my to-do list. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read for anyone feeling the weight of modern life.
Pros:
The book addresses the issues of our 24/7 work culture.
It makes a compelling case for the benefits of taking time off.
It encourages healthier engagement with technology and nature.
Cons:
The book left me feeling conflicted about its message.
It felt like another task to add to my list.
It seemed to reflect a privileged perspective without adequate critique.
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10/06/2025 08:03 pm GMT