Conservation biologist Hanson (
Hurricane Lizards and Plastic Squid: The Fraught and Fascinating Biology of Climate Change) shares his experiences observing and learning about nature on his rural property on an island off the coast of Washington. Divided into three parts—“Seeing,” “Exploring,” and “Restoring”—his essays encourage readers to pay close attention to the plants and animals in their own backyards. He wants readers to see them through someone else’s eyes, such as a child’s, or through new perspectives. He discovers diminutive, potentially new species in his yard while also tracking bumblebee activity, exploring soil science, watching wildlife, and observing animals that are active at night. The book concludes with ways to help nature by restoring habitats and identifying limiting factors in the environment that prevent animals from inhabiting their natural dwellings. The experiences of others and the importance of citizen scientists are woven throughout Hanson’s essays as he explains studies and interviews experts on the book’s topics.
VERDICT A fascinating look at interesting creatures going about their business in the most mundane habitats, demonstrating that observing nature is available to all. For readers who relish accessible scientific studies and lyrical nature writing.
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