Looking to learn more about ecology, regeneration, and human behaviour this summer?
From writers who explore how trees live in communities, to how the planet can guide you in understanding your own emotions, the Commonland team has selected their top 5 reads for the summer to offer you insight, inspiration, and a call to action.
1. Ways of Being by James Bridle
Ever thought about more-than-human intelligence? If so, our Head of Content, Lily Maxwell recommends James Bridle’s recent book exploring ways of being. Examining, as Bridle himself puts it, “AI, non-human intelligence, ecology, biological computing, more-than-human relations, and much else”, this book will challenge your existing beliefs about what intelligence really is, and whether humans are so exceptional after all. A transhumanist rally to value the wisdom of other species, and a call to shift AI development towards the common good of all beings, it’s well-worth a read this summer!
2. The Overstory by Richard Powers
This award-winning piece of fiction is a compelling narrative advocating for environmental activism and the wonders of trees. Our Landscape Finance Manager, Alejandro Diaz, praises Richard Powers’ book for its beautifully written series of short stories and engaging characters, some of whom are inspired by real-life leaders like Suzanne Simard, a renowned forest ecologist. Alejandro describes the book as a lovely and emotive read, offering a refreshing change of pace from his usual non-fiction choices. He does note, however, that the book is 500 pages long, suggesting it might be best enjoyed in digestible parts!
3. Regeneration by Paul Hawken
A comprehensive guide to ecological regeneration. Our Landscape Developer, Willemijn de Iongh, recommends Regeneration by Paul Hawken, describing it as an “Inspirational Regeneration Encyclopedia.” The book offers a wealth of lived and researched examples on how we can regenerate our living world. The solutions presented are both ambitious and practical, ranging from creating net-zero cities and restoring land to reintroducing beavers. It also highlights everyday actions like cycling more and adopting a plant-based diet. Willemijn also encourages exploring the solutions featured on the accompanying website, which offers a visually captivating journey through these transformative ideas: https://regeneration.org/solutions
4. God Is An Octopus: Loss, Love and a Calling to Nature by Ben Goldsmith
Our Relationships Manager, Tessa Snaterse, recommends this beautiful autobiographical story about how one man’s mourning over the loss of a child is channelled into recreating life through a rewilding project. In Goldsmith’s book, personal healing and regeneration are intertwined with the act of rewilding his farm and restoring natural systems. Tessa says, “Ben Goldsmith shares his personal story with much vulnerability, he’s lost his daughter in a tragic accident. The story is so captivating that I had a hard time putting the book down. It’s a story about transforming trauma into beauty and optimism.” A tearjerker that inspires all to act now for the planet – not to be missed!
5. Earth Emotions: New Words for a New World by Glenn Albrecht
Find it difficult to articulate how you feel about the world around you? Then this book is for you! In Earth Emotions, recommended by our Founder Willem Ferwerda, Glenn Albrecht, renowned Australian philosopher, professor and environment activist, explores our negative and positive “Earth emotions”. He explains his concept of “solastalgia” – “the homesickness you have when you are still at home” – and other “eco-emotions”, such as biophilia – love for life – and topophilia – love for place. Why? Albrecht believes we need a new vocabulary to give us better ways of thinking through and talking about our eco-anxiety, our connection to the planet, and our hope for a more nature-positive future.
We hope you enjoy this collection of books to keep you engaged throughout the summer and beyond! Delving into this reading list should enhance your appreciation of nature, others, and yourself…
Any other books you’d like to add to our list? Let us know by sending a message to communications@commonland.com.