Field Notes from an Unintentional Birder: A Memoir by Julia Zarankin is an honest, entertaining look at the author’s transformation into a bird lover while “auditioning” mid-life hobbies. She shares reflections of ten years of observing birds, yet rather than claiming expert-status, she declares herself a “lifelong beginning birder.” The book moves mostly chronologically, reflectingRead More
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Lessons from Rachel Carson for a New Generation
Middle-schoolers and their families looking for engaging ways to learn about nature and ecology concepts will enjoy Rachel Carson and Ecology for Kids: Her Life and Ideas,with 21 Activities and Experiments. The book follows Rachel Carson’s life, from her childhood adventures growing up in the woods along the Allegheny River, through her environmental work forRead More
Easy Ways to Nourish Environmental Consciousness in Kids
With so many environmental concerns today, it’s tough to say which is the most pressing. It can be overwhelming to think about how to make a difference or what issue to start with. Toss in the daily activities that come with a couple kids, and the task may seem impossible. In Growing Sustainable Together, ShannonRead More
Get More Out of Your Swiss Army Knife
Victorinox Swiss Army Knife Camping & Outdoor Survival Guide: 101 Tips Tricks and Uses by Bryan Lynch is both history book and practical guide. Dating to 1891, the Swiss Army Knife is arguably the most recognizable pocket knife of all time. Whether purchased new or passed down through the family, many fans of the SwissRead More
With the Right Guidance, Bird Watching Can Be Contagious
I Love Birds! By Jennifer Ward is a charming, fun, and educational guide to the world of birds. This book provides information and suggestions for activities to help any parent (even those who know nothing more than a feathered creature is a bird) teach their child about birds and enjoy observing them. By suggesting thatRead More
The World Is Our Classroom
Part memoir, part guide for parents to insert more hands-on nature activities into their children’s lives, The World Is Our Classroom, How One Family Used Nature and Travel to Shape an Extraordinary Education, by Cindy Ross, is an entertaining and eye-opening look at how much children can learn through experience, given the right environment andRead More
The Honest Backpacker Makes Hiking Accessible for All Ages
The Honest Backpacker, A Practical Guide for the Rookie Adventurer over 50, by James and Nicole Klopovic is an encouraging guide to those with the desire, though maybe not the confidence, to get on the trail. Written for older adults, it covers important information that will benefit anyone preparing for a long hike, noRead More