Ratings51
Average rating4
I can admire the author's passion and intention, but I think the marketing and the ultimate goal differ. While there are chapters discussing a variety of tree functions internally and those seemingly in cooperation via fungal networks with the trees around them, there is also the pleasant regular acknowledgement of where gaps in science's knowledge remains, and from there emotional extrapolation on the author's part about tree feelings. The majority of the book seems to be about forests: how they work, why it's so important not to mess with them as the lumber industry does, why natural microclimates and ecosystems created by unmanaged forests benefit trees and people too. A worthy goal, but despite the short chapters, the subject matter could get dry and repetitive. I was flipping through the ‘illustrated' (many beautiful full colour photographs) edition in tandem, which has adapted, abbreviated text - so not a direct map onto the other book, and coffee table size so a strain on the wrists - but I think the two together make the most compelling argument.
P.S. The scientist whose work the author references several times in the book, and the one who wrote the Note From A Forest Scientist at the end of the book, happens to be from my province in Canada. Will definitely be checking out her book ‘Finding the Mother Tree' soon!