Semiosis

A group of humans escapes from earth to start afresh on a wild lush planet. Their intention is peace, yet as we follow along their progress in generational steps, listening to the voices of each generation's current “moderator”, we learn that intentions aren't always easy to upkeep. Especially when you are attempting to form alliances with other sentient beings.

This was great. The novel is like a tabula rasa for civilization. Where lessons of the past are intentionally or unintentioally hidden, giving our protagonists (fauna and flora) the opportunity to relearn conflict resolution, language, collaboration. Within their own specis and also with others. And even plants discover that it is hard to balance emotions with facts.

Bad bad orange trees! :)

I especially liked that the book had enemies but ultimately chose to show that collaboration is always the right path towards a healthy environment.