The Forest Unseen: A Year’s Watch in Nature

By David George Haskell

            This accomplished scientist takes a year to observe a small patch of old growth forest.  His excellent powers of observation, coupled with astounding scientific knowledge, has made this book a valued treasure, worthy of a permanent place on my bookshelves.

            “…, watching ourselves and watching the world are not in opposition; by observing the forest, I have come to see myself more clearly,” David Haskell writes.

            This is a compelling journey into the aspects of the forest we normally pay little or no attention to, yet, by observing and studying, our understanding of relationships and how we are profoundly affected by other creatures and plants enriches our knowledge and sense of who we are in the world.  I wanted to linger over each chapter, and savor his well-crafted and engaging skills as a writer.

I found it to be an absolute delight, filled with amazing facts and discussions about relationships, and the relationship of humans with the forest and natural processes. 

            ~~ Review by Neal Lemery

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