sincerelyelizakate's review
emotional
hopeful
informative
reflective
slow-paced
4.5
A lovely companion took keep with you throughout the year. Renkyl's prose is lyrical without becoming saccharine or pretentious. The readings are short, little devotions for keeping present throughout the rest of your day. As you read the book do not be surprised if you find yourself noticing more of the world around you and appreciating the small bits of nature you witness.
Additionally, the art alone is worth getting the book. The pieces are mixed media collages that also demand you linger on the page, taking them in. If they were available as prints I would buy them for my home.
Thank you to NetGalley and Spiegal & Grau for an ARC copy. All opinions are my own.
Additionally, the art alone is worth getting the book. The pieces are mixed media collages that also demand you linger on the page, taking them in. If they were available as prints I would buy them for my home.
Thank you to NetGalley and Spiegal & Grau for an ARC copy. All opinions are my own.
cmfruin2012's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
4.5
melissagopp's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
5.0
Reading books by nature writers is always such a refreshing palate cleanser from the fast pace of current events and social media. I thoroughly enjoyed Renkl’s collection of observations and reflections on the wildlife on her residential plot of land. Some of my favorite takeaways: the value of an untidy garden, the antidepressant properties of freshly turned soil, and the tragedy of life imperiled by green lawns for fashion’s sake. As Renkl notes, we can’t single-handedly change America or solve climate change, but we can plant a garden. Renkl has been the custodian of her yard for decades, where she has provided a habitat for wildlife, raised her kids, and loved her spouse. The wisdom she’s gained in the process is brimming with meaning and value. Thank you to NetGalley and the the publisher for the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
molliesafran's review
2.5
The figurative language is beautiful, and it’s nice to read the descriptive bits of nature. However the authors attempts to make meaning are overly preachy, and cause me to eye roll so much it ripped me out of the nature world she is trying to immerse us in. It feels like it’s trying to be Mary Oliver but it’s not succeeding.
litwtchreads's review
5.0
A beautiful book for exactly this time, filled with wonderful illustrations and thoughtful meditations. The epigraphs were well chosen and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.