A Wonderful Book

The Book I’m Currently Reading – Photo: L. Weikel

A while ago – oh wow, I just realized it’s been two years! – I read a wonderful book called The Overstory*, a novel by Richard Powers. Reading that story was a gift on many levels. I permitted myself to step back from the responsibilities of the outside world and just read for hours on end. The tale not only opened my eyes to the plight of the American Chestnut (as well as other species of trees) – but also gave me perspective on current attempts to bring that tree back in a more resilient form.

I’m currently reading Finding the Mother Tree – Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest* by Suzanne Simard. This book is not a novel. Rather, it’s the autobiography/memoir of a forestry research scientist whose work was the basis of a good chunk of The Overstory.

I happen to love reading memoirs, probably because I am fascinated by how people become who they are. The tales of our becoming are sacred.

Finding the Mother Tree

A funny thing about this particular book, though. I’ve been holding it by my side of the bed for six months. But I was compelled to read a couple other books first. Finally, though, about a month ago I finally found Finding the Mother Tree to be next in line. I’ve been savoring it ever since.

As is my habit, thought, I’ve only been allowing myself to read it after I go to bed, so I’m still only about halfway through. What’s especially cool is that my sister-in-law, Francine, sent me a text last week recommending this podcast. Imagine my surprise when I realized it was an interview with Suzanne Simard, the author of this book.

I love that this is a story about how our forests and trees are related to each other in ways no White people ever believed they could be (but, I hasten to add, indigenous people have always known they are). I’m also enjoying this book because I’m the same age as the author. I remember the attitudes she describes facing in her profession – they sound sadly familiar.

Collaboration

Ultimately, the author ends up discovering that forests thrive as a result of collaboration between species – not competition. Extrapolating her discoveries to more and more aspects of our world, especially those in which humans are interfering (or just being themselves) could change everything profoundly.

I heartily recommend both the On Being podcas interviewt and the book. Allow yourself to be inspired.