6+ Favorite Books on Nature Writing (So Far!)

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

Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey
$5.76

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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10/12/2025 11:01 am GMT
Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold
$27.90

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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10/12/2025 01:01 pm 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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10/12/2025 04:02 am GMT
The Overstory by Richard Powers
$15.03

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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10/12/2025 01:00 am GMT
Drifting Into Darien by Janisse Ray
$12.62

In Drifting Into Darien, Janisse Ray takes us on her 10-day adventure down the Altamaha River, highlighting its unique ecosystems and rich history. I loved how she blends personal reflections with ecological insights, making the book both poetic and informative. It's fascinating to see the connection between past Native American cultures and today's environmental challenges. While I appreciated the division between travelogue and topical essays, I felt some parts could’ve used a tighter edit. Still, if you're into nature and history, this memoir is a compelling read that resonates deeply.
Pros:
Engaging memoir that combines personal experience with natural history
Vivid and poetic writing that brings the Altamaha River ecosystem to life
Interesting structure with a mix of travelogue and topical essays
Cons:
Some sections felt disjointed and lengthy; could have benefited from more editing
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10/11/2025 09:03 pm GMT
Walden by Henry David Thoreau
$6.91

In Walden, Henry David Thoreau shares his experiences living simply at Walden Pond, emphasizing the value of self-reliance and a close connection to nature. I found the book to be a profound mix of personal reflection and social critique, tackling themes like solitude, simplicity, and the pitfalls of consumerism. Thoreau's insights feel incredibly relevant even today, making it a timeless guide for anyone looking to simplify their life and appreciate what truly matters. Honestly, I couldn't find anything I didn't like; it’s a classic for a reason, and I loved every part of it.
Pros:
Insightful reflection on simple living
Timeless practicality and relevance
Combines autobiography with social critique
Cons:
Nothing - loved it all.
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10/12/2025 03:03 am GMT
Kings of The Yukon by Adam Weymouth
$10.35

In Kings of The Yukon, Adam Weymouth takes us on a journey along the Yukon River while exploring the interconnectedness of nature and indigenous cultures, particularly through the lens of the struggling Chinook salmon. I appreciated the stunning setting and Weymouth's insightful observations on how even remote areas are affected by global issues like climate change. His writing is vivid and engaging, though I found the book didn't match my expectations of a grand adventure, focusing more on personal stories and smaller explorations. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking read that highlights the urgent need for environmental awareness and action.
Pros:
Beautiful and descriptive writing that enhances the narrative
In-depth exploration of the interconnectedness of nature and culture
Engaging portrayal of indigenous communities and environmental issues
Cons:
The book didn't meet my initial expectations regarding adventure focus.
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10/12/2025 03:02 am GMT
A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers by Henry David Thoreau
Thoreau's 1849 book "A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers" chronicles a boat journey with his brother. Though it sold poorly initially, the work offers modern insights into grief, spirituality, and humanity's connection with nature. The book pioneered mixing travel writing with social commentary, notably documenting early industrial impacts on New England's waterways. While the detailed descriptions can become tedious, making the book somewhat long-winded, it provides a rare glimpse into 19th-century American camping and exploration.
Pros:
Pioneered travel writing mixed with social commentary
Early documentation of industrial impacts on New England waterways
Unique perspective on 19th century American wilderness exploration
Cons:
Overly long and meandering narrative structure
Tediously detailed descriptive passages
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Natural History (DK Definitive Visual Encyclopedias)

$19.99

Absolutely beautiful book and dense with all the information. The person or team who designed this book is just brilliant. This book is the type to show you stuff that you don't know that you don't know. It's useful and enjoyable for anyone from 3 to full on PhD scientist. Love it!

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10/12/2025 04:00 pm GMT