Want some recommendations for entertaining and uplifting nature books? This is the list for you! Below are some amazing nature-related reads that are entertaining, inspiring, and impactful in their own ways.
I honestly feel like we all could use a content refresh given everything going on in the world right now. So, I’m choosing to spend less time on social media and more time reading! If you too would like to do the same, I’ve got 10 feel-good nature books to recommend that’ll help calm your nervous system. I would recommend these books to anyone who wants to de-stress by getting immersed in the natural world, so let’s get into it!
This book has a twist in narrative on our climate future. It’s a hopeful collection of essays, poetry, and conversations that imagines a world where get it right. It’s affirming, funny, and a great way to get into climate activism while maintaining positivity.
A fantastically written biography on Alexander von Humboldt, a visionary naturalist who laid the foundation for ecology and how we understand nature. Filled with daring scientific expeditions, connections with iconic people, and the lasting impact of Humboldt’s legacy – this is one of my favorite nature books!
A story of morphology, evolution, and fascinating scientific discoveries. Paleontologist Neil Shubin presents the information in a light-hearted, conversational, and easily digestible manner. This book is fascinating and gives a greater appreciation of life and the amazing things we’ve learned about it.
A quant book on the interactions and senses of trees from an often philosophical perspective. Wohlleben pulls back a curtain on a world not many stop to think about and although this book can lack thorough explanations, it’s an interesting and amazing story that’ll make you love the woods a little more.
A synthesis of observations about the world around us – all based on life’s commonplace and essential element: carbon. Full of insight, inspiration, and appreciation for what our world entails and how it’s all connected. This book is a great read if you’re looking for a path out of climate despair!
Looking for practical solutions on how you can support ecosystems? Then this is one of the best nature books to read! This book will navigate you through creating wildlife sanctuaries at home in the form of questions and answers and is packed with information. It’s a great read that shifts focus back onto how much power we as individuals have in shaping our environments for the better.
It’s hard to be an environmentalist because of all the negative stories and depressing outlooks, but this book aims at changing the narrative. In this book, the focus is on the success stories and authentic hope – both of which we need right now! Read this if you need a reminder that a better world is possible and positive change is already happening around us.
This book proves that the wonders of nature aren’t in some far-off undiscovered place, they’re actually right outside your door! Hanson will instill a sense of wonder and appreciation for things often overlooked while showing the reader that we all have a part to play when it comes to bettering our environment.
A creative exploration of nature through the five senses, this book is a fantastic read. Filled with science, interviews, and poetic observations that will bring warmth and appreciation for the natural world. This book is a must for those who want to partake in discussions around inclusion, advocacy, and equity without succumbing to hopelessness.
Upstream is a collection of essays that reflect on admiration and respect for the natural world. Filled with observations and musings from the author that instill a sense of wonder and desire to live slowly. If you want to immerse yourself in the world, this is a great book to read to get you in the spirit.
Where to buy these nature books:
I’ve linked the nature books discussed to make it easier to find, but I don’t make any commission from the links and have just provided them to be helpful. I know owning physical books can be controversial in the sustainability and zero-waste space, but there are ways to lessen your impact without giving up reading!
E-readers are great if you already have one, so purchasing e-books is one way to go about this. If you prefer physical books, I suggest you check out your local library first instead of purchasing a copy. If you definitely want to own a physical copy then you can check out used bookstores in your area or online. Doing this instead of purchasing new helps reduce waste, is lower-impact, and supports small businesses – all things we love to see!
Overall, don’t overthink it too much because at the end of the day we have enough to worry about! Plus, I’d hate to add more barriers to education and nature appreciation, so if you want to read then just get the dang book.